Where will Mourinho go?
The evidence is starting to build that Real Madrid might need to look for a new coach come the end of the season. Jose Mourinho has been fairly evasive when questioned on the subject and as yet has not given a definitive answer as to whether he will be remaining in Madrid next season. Whilst his side convincingly won La Liga last year, they have very much played second fiddle to Barcelona this campaign, who have all but wrapped up the title. However, both sides are through to face German opposition in the semi-finals of the Champions League and could potentially meet in a mouth-watering final at Wembley in May. If the Portuguese coach could guide Los Merengues to glory in this competition would he then consider his work done, as he did after achieving a historic treble with Inter in 2010?
Although there is still plenty left to do before Real Madrid can begin celebrating their tenth Champions Cup title, what would be the repercussions if the ‘Special One’ does decide to leave? He has often declared his love for England and the Premier League, but with his pedigree and ambition surely only a handful of clubs would be of interest to him. Manchester United and Arsenal are certain to stick with Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger, which leaves only two possibilities; Manchester City and Chelsea.
The reigning league champions have again underperformed in Europe and look like they are about to hand over the Premier League trophy to their neighbours. Normally a second placed finish would not be an underachievement, but after the drama and celebrations of last season’s astonishing conclusion the bar was set very high for Roberto Mancini’s players. Inconsistency has been their downfall, although the owners have not mentioned any changes to the management. Perhaps they are waiting until the season has ended before making some important decisions and certainly their current playing squad and financial clout could attract Mourinho to Manchester.
Chelsea have already stated that Rafa Benitez will not remain at the club once the season has reached its conclusion and rumours have begun about a possible return to Stamford Bridge for the man that led them to so much silverware upon arriving in London in 2004. His departure from the club was linked to apparent disagreements with owner Roman Abramovich, which would make it very interesting if he was to once again sit in the hot seat for the Blues.
If neither of those options presents itself then could we see a return to Inter, themselves struggling in both domestic and European competition this year? Or could he try and become the first ever coach to win league titles in five different European leagues by heading to PSG, who are now serious contenders due to impressive financial backing by their owners. Whatever his decision, it will definitely have the football world eagerly watching in anticipation.
2 comments