Though no longer managing in Europe’s top five leagues, the Portuguese tactician still believes he is at the peak of his powers.
After years of traveling across countries, scripting tales of triumphs and setbacks with various clubs, José Mourinho now feels a strong urge to return home. The self-proclaimed “Special One” also believes he still has much more to offer in his coaching career.
Throughout his journey, Mourinho has been no stranger to controversies — but he’s also tasted great success. Even though he’s now coaching outside Europe’s elite leagues, he continues to see himself at the top of his game.
The 62-year-old Mourinho still has a year left on his contract with Turkish side Fenerbahçe. But after a 2-1 pre-season friendly win over Portuguese club Portimonense, he openly spoke of his desire to return home.
“Of course I will return to Portugal. It hasn’t happened yet, but of course it will,” Mourinho said.
“It’s not because I’m at the end of my career — I feel the end is still a long way off. I don’t want to return for a farewell tour or the last few years of my career. I want to go back to Portugal while I’m still at the top, healthy, and both physically and mentally strong. Of course I will return.”
Mourinho stunned the football world when he led hometown club Porto to Champions League glory in 2004, instantly becoming one of the most sought-after managers in world football. He joined Chelsea soon after that historic triumph.
Now in charge of his tenth club, Mourinho has had two stints at Chelsea and has collected 26 trophies across spells with Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Roma.
When asked whether he dreams of returning to the dugout of a Portuguese club or even the national team, Mourinho simply replied:
“Either one would be fine.”
