Jose Mourinho is a Portuguese football manager who is widely regarded as one of the most successful coaches of his generation. He first joined Chelsea as manager in 2004 and quickly transformed the club into a dominant force in the Premier League.
During his first stint at Chelsea (2004-2007), Mourinho won two Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and two League Cups. He also guided Chelsea to their first-ever Champions League final in 2008, although they were defeated by Manchester United on penalties.
Mourinho’s tactics and management style were widely praised during his time at Chelsea, as he emphasized defensive solidity and discipline while also developing a potent attacking style. He was also known for his bold and controversial statements to the media, which earned him the nickname “The Special One.”
In 2013, Mourinho returned to Chelsea for a second stint as manager. He again led the team to Premier League success in 2015, as well as winning the League Cup. However, his second spell at the club was marked by several controversies, including high-profile disputes with players, staff, and referees.
Mourinho’s tenure at Chelsea ended in December 2015, when he was sacked after a poor run of results. He has since gone on to manage several other high-profile clubs, including Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and Manchester United.
Overall, Mourinho’s impact on Chelsea was immense, as he helped transform the club into a domestic and European powerhouse. His innovative tactics and larger-than-life personality made him a beloved figure among Chelsea supporters, and he remains one of the most successful managers in the club’s history.
Here are some notable quotes by Jose Mourinho during his time at Chelsea:
“Please don’t call me arrogant, but I’m European champion and I think I’m a special one.” – Mourinho introducing himself to the English media after being appointed Chelsea manager in 2004.
“If you want to work with me, I think you should have only one shirt, a Chelsea shirt.” – Mourinho emphasizing the importance of commitment to the club.
“I’m not afraid of confrontation. If you want something from me, come and tell me to my face.” – Mourinho on his willingness to deal with conflicts directly.
“We don’t celebrate second place, we’re not happy with it.” – Mourinho setting high standards for his team.
“The best team lost, but the best team doesn’t always win.” – Mourinho after Chelsea lost to Barcelona in the 2009 Champions League semifinals.
“In my country, they would call it a water polo penalty.” – Mourinho on a controversial penalty awarded to Liverpool in the 2005 Champions League semifinals.
“I’m a bit frustrated because I’m not allowed to smoke here. I miss my cigarettes.” – Mourinho expressing his frustration with a smoking ban at Stamford Bridge.
“I always tell the players, we need to enjoy our work, but we also need to suffer together.” – Mourinho on the importance of teamwork and sacrifice.
“We didn’t lose, we just ran out of time.” – Mourinho after a late goal secured a draw for Chelsea against Barcelona in the 2006 Champions League.
“If we are playing cards and I’m looking at your cards all the time, I’m going to win for sure.” – Mourinho on the importance of studying opponents and analyzing their weaknesses.
Here are some notable quotes about Jose Mourinho during his time at Chelsea:
“He’s the best manager in the world. He’s got the ability to make you feel as though you’re the best player in the world.” – Former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard on Mourinho’s man-management skills.
“He’s got a fantastic aura about him. He’s a winner, he’s a fighter, and he instills that into his players.” – Former Chelsea defender John Terry on Mourinho’s leadership.
“He’s very clever and very calculated. He knows exactly what he wants and he’s not afraid to go out and get it.” – Former Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien on Mourinho’s tactical nous.
“He’s a master of psychology, he knows how to get the best out of his players.” – Former Chelsea striker Didier Drogba on Mourinho’s ability to motivate his team.
“He’s a genius. The way he reads the game and sets up his team is second to none.” – Former Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech on Mourinho’s tactical prowess.
“He’s a character, he’s a winner, he’s someone that demands the best from everyone.” – Former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole on Mourinho’s influence on the team.
“He’s the perfect manager for Chelsea. He understands the club, he understands the fans, and he knows how to win.” – Former Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon on Mourinho’s affinity for the club.
“He’s one of the greatest coaches in the history of football. He’s won everywhere he’s been.” – Former Chelsea assistant coach Steve Clarke on Mourinho’s record of success.
“He’s like a father figure to the players. He’s always looking out for them and trying to protect them.” – Former Chelsea assistant coach Rui Faria on Mourinho’s relationship with the players.
“He’s a born winner. He hates losing and he’ll do whatever it takes to win.” – Former Chelsea striker Eidur Gudjohnsen on Mourinho’s competitive drive.