Rui Costa spoke to RTP Notícias after the conclusion of Benfica's domestic season, during which Mourinho himself openly acknowledged that his agent Jorge Mendes has been in contact with Real Madrid on his behalf. The 63-year-old has a release clause in his contract and has stated the coming week will be decisive.
"José Mourinho is Benfica's manager until proven otherwise. It is up to Mourinho to decide on the renewal offer. As for everything else, I will speak to the Benfica fans this week to take stock of the season."
Rui Costa was also asked directly whether he had considered Marco Silva, currently out of contract at Fulham, as a potential replacement should Mourinho leave for the Bernabéu.
"Have I thought about Marco Silva or anyone else if Mourinho leaves? Obviously not. Mourinho is Benfica's manager until proven otherwise."
Mourinho, speaking after Benfica's final league fixture, acknowledged that contacts are progressing without him directly involved yet.
"From Monday I will be able to speak about my future. It's true I have not spoken with Florentino Pérez or anyone from Real Madrid's structure. But I am not stupid. Between the club and Jorge Mendes there are contacts, and I believe they will turn into contacts with me during the coming week."
He also addressed the nature of any possible offer from Madrid, making clear that financial terms are not his primary concern.
"It depends on the offer, on what they expect from me. It is not about more or less money, it is about what they expect from me, whether I am in a position to fulfil what they are proposing, the profile of the work they have in mind."
Mourinho's release clause is understood to be worth around three million euros and expires within days. Real Madrid's presidential board is expected to make a formal approach this week once the domestic season concludes. Álvaro Arbeloa, who has been in interim charge since January, is set to step down regardless of whether Mourinho or another appointment follows.