The Career of José Mourinho
José Mourinho, commonly known as “The Special One,” is a football manager known for his charismatic personality, tactical prowess, and impressive track record of success across various top European clubs.
Early Life and Beginnings of Coaching Career
José Mário dos Santos Mourinho Félix was born on January 26, 1963, in Setúbal, Portugal. The son of a professional goalkeeper, Mourinho was immersed in football from an early age. Although his playing career was modest, it was coaching where Mourinho would leave his mark.
He began his coaching career as a school coach before moving into higher-profile roles as an interpreter and assistant at top clubs. His association with English coach Bobby Robson at Sporting CP, Porto, and Barcelona helped shape his methodical approach to the game. Mourinho then served as an assistant manager under Louis van Gaal at Barca before stepping into the limelight with his first managerial role.
Porto and The Rise to Prominence
Mourinho’s breakthrough as a top-class manager came during his time at Porto. Joining the club in 2002, he quickly turned a struggling team into a dominant force in Portuguese football, winning the Primeira Liga, the Taça de Portugal, and the UEFA Cup (now Europa League) in his first season.
The following year, he led Porto to an even more astonishing triumph — victory in the UEFA Champions League. This success catapulted him onto the international stage and earmarked him as one of football’s most exciting managerial talents.
The Chelsea Era
In 2004, Mourinho joined Chelsea FC, declaring himself “The Special One” during his inaugural press conference and setting the tone for what was to come. Under his leadership, Chelsea won their first top-flight domestic title in 50 years, and Mourinho added two Premier League trophies, an FA Cup, and two League Cups to the club’s honors list.
Inter Milan and The Historic Treble
After leaving Chelsea, Mourinho took over at Inter Milan in 2008. His time in Italy peaked in the 2009–2010 season when he guided Inter to a historic treble: winning Serie A, the Coppa Italia, and the Champions League. Mourinho’s tactical mastery was on full display throughout their campaign, particularly in their Champions League semi-final victory over Barcelona.
Real Madrid and The La Liga Conquest
Mourinho’s next challenge was at Real Madrid, where he faced the tough task of competing against one of the greatest Barcelona teams of all time. In 2012, he clinched La Liga with a record-breaking 100 points tally and solidified his status by defeating Barcelona to win the Copa del Rey in the previous season.
Return to Chelsea and Further Success
2013 saw a return to Chelsea for Mourinho. This second stint brought another Premier League title and a League Cup. Despite his continued success, mounting tensions within the club led to a decline in results and eventually his departure in 2015.
A Stint at Manchester United
Taking over Manchester United in 2016, Mourinho won the EFL Cup and the Europa League in his first season. However, despite a runner up finish in the Premier League in his second season, conflicts and inconsistent performances plagued his tenure leading to his dismissal in December 2018.
Tottenham Hotspur and Roma Engagement
Mourinho became head coach of Tottenham Hotspur in November 2019 but failed to win any silverware during his time in North London. He left Tottenham in April 2021 just days before the Carabao Cup final.
Continuing his managerial journey, Mourinho took charge of AS Roma in Serie A for the 2021-2022 season, where he aims to restore the club’s former glory and compete at the highest level of European football.
Managerial Style and Legacy
Historically known for defensive strength and tactical discipline, Mourinho’s counter-attacking style has yielded considerable success. He is also recognized for mental toughness instilled in his players and often engages in psychological games with opponents through the media. Despite criticism for not always advocating attacking football and for controversial moments in his career, Mourinho’s legacy as one of the greatest managers of his generation is largely uncontested.
Mourinho’s often confrontational style has led to numerous feuds with other managers but has also driven the narrative of modern football, bringing attention and drama to every league he enters.
His adeptness at cultivating a ‘siege mentality’ within his squads has helped him achieve numerous victories against seemingly more formidable opponents by instilling a resilient team spirit.