In Round 31 of the Primeira Liga, Benfica secured an emphatic 4–1 home victory over Moreirense. After the match, head coach José Mourinho attended the post-match press conference and admitted there had been a confrontation on the touchline with Belgian winger Dodi Lukebakio, who showed his frustration after being substituted in the 58th minute.

Speaking about the incident, Mourinho said:

“Lukebakio doesn’t like being taken off, but the bench shouldn’t be responsible for the frustration of a player who doesn’t want to come off. We had a verbal exchange. To be honest, I quite like that kind of argument. He asked me why I substituted him, saying he shouldn’t have been taken off. My response was a bit strong, but it’s nothing serious — it’s already behind us.”

When asked whether Lukebakio was wasting his opportunities, Mourinho replied:

“I think the main reason for his limited playing time lies with Prestianni — they are competing for the same position. Players and coaches each have their own characteristics. I’m not someone who believes a coach must always agree with players, but I also don’t think a coach should change his nature to adapt to players. We need to find a balance.”

“I had very different ideas from Schjelderup in the past, but now we’re very close. There are aspects of Lukebakio’s game that I don’t appreciate — he has to change. Sometimes I think, if Diamantino Miranda had healthy knees, he could still dribble past defenders, but tracking back and fighting for the ball… that requires stamina, and more importantly, willingness. Look at the goal we conceded today, and you’ll understand what I mean.”