Jose Mourinho admitted he was ‘emotional’ turning down the Portugal job, feeling it was ‘a mistake’ to stay at Roma.
Back in December 2022, following the end of Fernando Santos’ eight-year spell in charge, the Portuguese FA were in close contact with the Roma coach to try and convince him to take over the national team. He ultimately rejected the role, prompting them to turn to Roberto Martinez.
Mourinho saw out the 2022-23 season with Roma, which saw his side fall short of Champions League qualification and suffer defeat in the Europa League final to Sevilla. Things were tougher this campaign and he was dismissed in January, replaced by Daniele De Rossi.
Mourinho regret
Speaking to EA Sports Korea via Calciomercato.com, Mourinho first reflected on the toughest European finals to reach and how he likes to work.
“The two finals with Roma were the toughest to reach. Maybe the Europa League with Manchester United was also very difficult. Because they were two teams that, when I arrived, were in a very difficult spot.
“Some coaches are maybe smarter and more intelligent, and therefore choose the right job with the ideal conditions to achieve success. I need to always work, to feel that I am doing something and helping someone.
“I like challenges, even if sometimes they are unfair because I can’t be expected to win trophies when my team is not the strongest on the pitch.”
Mourinho was then asked which national team he’d like to coach, revealing his regrets regarding his rejection of the Portugal job.
“It’s normal, Portugal. I had the chance to go twice, but they didn’t come at the right time for me. I was emotional when I rejected the last offer, because I decided to stay at Roma, and I think I made a mistake.
“Because now Portugal have a fantastic team, one of the best, in the top five. I knew it, but I felt a great connection with Roma, with the fans, so I didn’t want to make that decision.
“The Portugal job has come twice, but I think it’ll come a third time too and I’ll take it. Hoping that the generation I have will be as strong as this one.”