Jorge Jesus is Benfica's 62nd coach and arrived at the Luz on June 17, 2013 with Almost 4 seasons done. (Most coaches at Benfica lasted an average of 2 seasons)
He is the fifth longest running coach in Benfica's history. (Cosme Damião is the longest running coach almost 18 years in charge 1908-1926.)
According to Brazilian sports business consulting firm Pluri Consultoria Jorge Jesus came is the 15th out of 30 best paid football managers in the world.
According to Talking To Da Doll's Episode 56 Podcast 3.20/13, these numbers are proof that he is one of Benfica's most successful managers.
It has been 40 years since Benfica has had this many points in the League while at the 23rd round of the Liga. (The League's quality is improving and competition is much more fierce with the rise of teams like; Pacos De Ferreira, Rio Ave, Braga or as I like to call it The "A3" teams)
JJ has beaten the record of most unbeaten games (32) which was a 53 year old record
After recent win against Guimaraes, JJ is Benfica's third most successful coach in history with most wins.
JJ has the most wins in Europe more then any other Benfica coach in Benfica's history.
It is also important to mention that JJ was the same guy who transformed a mid table team such as Braga and helped turn them around into a success by being Portugal's new "Grande Tres" (sorry Sporting but it's true! I don't see Braga lasting in the top 3 for long)
Although he has often put his foot in his mouth during interviews and press conferences, he has remained calm and is more conservative this season. Whether it is the influence of LFV Putting a muzzle on JJ, or a possible new contract at the end of the season, JJ seems calm and confident in leading Benfica to success this year. Here is JJ's infamous speech this year at the Faculdade Humana na Integra de Motorcidade.
The question most Benfica supporters want to know is whether or not JJ will return at the helm
If Benfica continue their 4 point lead against Porto then yes? If we lose the league but win the Taça yes? If we lose the league and Taça then no. However, if we lose all competition in Portugal but somehow win the UEFA Europa League then not only yes but he will receive offers outside if Portugal. If Benfica repeat last year's accomplishments of having a 5 point lead over Porto and then blowing it then there is no question that JJ will be shown the door.
The reality is that the following last few games of the season will be crucial. Benfica's fate are in their own hands. Although Injuries are never planned but can occur at any moment, Benfica has a deep enough squad to carry on to victory. This is something that our neighbour's from the north lack and that is depth.
JJ being compared to the likes of Alex Ferguson and is considered a genius at Benfica. His adaptations were and are often criticised but it's as if he thinks on a different page then any other Benfica critic monitoring this team. For example; He took a player like Melgarejo who used to play as a forward for Pacos De Ferreira (10 goals last season) and decided that instead of keeping him on the bench as a backup forward to Lima or Cardozo he decided to make him Benfica's starting Left-back. We all criticised his moves but it worked out. Melgarejo took a while to adapt and he is still not a top left-back but has filled int he role quite well. I do strongly feel that Luisinho deserves more minutes but we don't know how he will do against a Porto or a strong Europa league competitor. Enzo was another player that JJ adapted from being a winger to strong mid-fielder being lethal beside Matic.
Although JJ's numbers are excellent he still has a lot of work to do to overcome the pessimistic Portuguese soccer critics. Another contract extension is not out of the question considering his efforts. What is really good about JJ is he is tough and stubborn and although he does not always make sense, he always looks at the big picture and does things for a reason. This is why the likes of Mourinho, and Ferguson are successful at club level.
When Benfica wins some silverware this year perhaps he can leave Benfica for a little while and spend some time mentoring Paulo Bento in becoming a better coach for Portugal. Maybe Portugal lacks more Benfica players? (Nationalize Lima for Christ's sake!) or maybe they just lack a creative genius?
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