Sven confirms Benfica talks
08 May 2008 - 15:22:40
Manchester City manager Sven-Goran Eriksson has confirmed that he has held talks with Benfica over a possible return to Portugal this summer.
Eriksson's future at Eastlands has been called into serious question in recent times following criticism of him from club owner and chairman Thaksin Shinawatra.
That has led the former England head coach to seek out possibilities for employment elsewhere, with a return to Benfica a serious consideration.
Eriksson confirmed: "I've had a meeting with the Benfica people. I'm considering the offer and it could be a step forward in my career. Let's see what happens."
The Lisbon club also confirmed that they had spoken to Eriksson, adding: "No details of the contract, namely salaries and timing, have been discussed."
Eriksson was in charge at Benfica between 1982-84 and 1989-92, helping the Lisbon Lions to three league titles and a European Cup final appearance in 1990.
Citizens chief Shinawatra has made clear his idea of making a change at Eastlands, with Portugal manager Luiz Felipe Scolari his reported first choice.
The former Thai prime minister had earlier stated: "There will be an evaluation at the end of the season of what needs to be changed, what needs to be added to the success of the club.
"All of them, Sven, Scolari, Jose Mourinho, they are all great coaches, great managers. We will discuss all of this at the end of the season."