Controversial UCL Celebration, Jose Mourinho Says Sorry to Arbeloa & Pep Guardiola Smiles

Benfica's victory over Real Madrid not only rocked the Da Luz Stadium, but also sparked an emotional moment between Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola. Mourinho revealed he had apologized to Alvaro Arbeloa. Meanwhile, Pep Guardiola stated he would thank Mourinho.

Benfica secured their place in the Champions League playoffs dramatically after defeating Real Madrid 4-2 on matchday 8, Wednesday 28 January 2026 (late night CET). 

Benfica's decisive goal came from an unexpected source. Goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin's header deep into injury time ensured As Aguias finished 24th in the standings. They advanced on superior goal difference over Marseille and secured a spot in the Round of 16 playoffs.

Benfica's substitutes and coaching staff poured onto the pitch celebrating Trubin's goal. Mourinho was seen punching the air and making passionate gestures towards the stands. 

However, the celebration drew scrutiny as it occurred directly in front of the Real Madrid bench, where Alvaro Arbeloa was seated.

Arbeloa is no stranger to Mourinho. The former Real Madrid right-back was once his player, making the celebration seem inappropriate given their personal history.

After the match, Mourinho offered an apology. 

"I apologize for the way I celebrated," said the coach nicknamed the Special One, as reported by ESPN.

Mourinho stressed his emotions were spontaneous in that crucial moment. 

"But Alvaro understands football, and he knows very well that in that moment you forget it's Real Madrid, and that Alvaro is on the bench, and (Madrid representative) Chendo and all your people, you forget everything. I have apologized," stated Mourinho.

The defeat meant Real Madrid failed to qualify automatically for the last 16, finishing ninth. Madrid will now contest the last 16 playoffs over two legs. 

Jose Mourinho's Strategy Benefits Pep Guardiola 

On the other hand, Benfica's victory over Madrid brought a significant advantage for Manchester City. The Citizens finished eighth with 16 points from eight games, the cutoff point for direct qualification to the last 16.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola fully recognized Mourinho's role in this scenario. 

"When I saw Benfica's keeper go up for the goal, what for? Madrid could have launched a counter-attack," Guardiola said, quoted from UEFA's official website. 

"At that time, I didn't know Benfica actually needed another goal," he added.

Benfica's fourth goal was indeed crucial for their goal difference advantage over Marseille. Guardiola ultimately acknowledged the decision as a stroke of genius from Mourinho. 

"In the end, it was a great strategy from Jose Mourinho, they managed to score the fourth goal," he stated. 

"Yes, I will thank him later," he concluded.