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Jose Mourinho takes another swipe at Tottenham ahead of Roma’s Europa League final clash with Sevilla.
As his Roma team prepares for a Europa League final against Sevilla, Jose Mourinho has launched another subtle dig at Tottenham Hotspur.
The outspoken Portuguese manager is preparing for his second European final in as many years, hoping to capture his sixth continental cup as he continues his spectacular career’s revival.
Mourinho, on the other hand, recently revealed that his low moment as a manager happened in north London when he was fired only days before a Carabao Cup final against Manchester City. It’s a move he still regrets, as the experienced strategist took another shot at the Spurs.
Looking ahead to Wednesday’s final, Mourinho told reporters: “Playing a Europa League final has become almost normal for Sevilla; for Roma it’s extraordinary, unforgettable. Last season I had to explain to the players what a UEFA media day was. Now it’s the second time for them so it looks a bit more normal, but it’s not normal at all. I’m really happy: I came to Rome to help them grow and reach these special moments that define the history of a club. There are clubs that a final is just one more final; for Roma it is very special.”
Asked to explain his difference in success between Spurs and Roma, Mourinho replied: “Roma didn’t sack me before the [2022 Conference League] final in Tirana. At Tottenham they sacked me before the [2021 Carabao Cup] final at Wembley. Roma gave me the chance; at Tottenham I had no chance.”
Despite finishing sixth in the league, which could have been lower had Juventus’ points deduction not been reinstated, Mourinho’s ability to lead Roma to back-to-back European finals has undoubtedly drawn attention.
The Portuguese may have the chance to quit his present employer after winning a European championship like he did with Porto in 2004 and Inter in 2010. Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid are two prospective suitors.
However, when asked about another potential departure, Mourinho replied frankly: “I have spoken to my two captains [Lorenzo Pellegrini and Gianluca Mancini]. I was objective with them. I don’t want them to say what has been said, that is between me and my team, but they are aware of my thoughts. I love Madrid, it’s a unique experience. I love the president so much and the head coach as well; you can imagine my relationship with the fans, the club. There is a big difference to Inter [in 2010]: I hadn’t signed a contract with Real Madrid, although it was done. This time I have had no contact with any club.”
While Mourinho gears up to lead Roma against six-time champions Sevilla in the Europa League, his old club Spurs is still looking for their sixth new manager since the Portuguese left in 2021 after being passed over by people like Vincent Kompany and Arne Slot.