Jose Mourinho has firmly stated that Benfica’s Champions League qualification will not sway his decision regarding a potential move to Real Madrid .

The 63-year-old manager is widely reported to be a leading candidate to replace Alvaro Arbeloa at the Bernabeu, amid a challenging season for the Spanish giants .

Mourinho, who assumed control at Benfica in September, has overseen an unbeaten run in the Portuguese league with only one match left to play.

However, a draw against Braga on Monday evening has left his side two points behind second-placed Sporting Lisbon, ahead of Saturday’s critical encounter with Estoril.

Addressing the speculation at his post-match press conference, Mourinho declared: "You’re talking about Real Madrid, I’m not talking about Real Madrid. I’m talking about Benfica, and the work we’ve been doing won’t change because we’re second or third.…