José Mourinho reflects on his unforgettable Roma spell, praises Chivu’s rise at Inter, and shares strong views on Italian football’s future
Nearly four years after that historic night in Tirana, José Mourinho still carries Roma in his heart.
In a heartfelt interview, the former Giallorossi coach delivered words that are sure to resonate deeply with fans — a mix of nostalgia, pride, and unwavering respect.
“The Most Beautiful Place of My Career”
Mourinho didn’t hesitate when asked about his time at AS Roma.
“It was the most beautiful place of my career,” he said. “I’ve never felt an environment like that around a football team — a full stadium every time, the passion people have for the players.”
Even for a coach who has won the Champions League multiple times, Roma left a unique mark.
“When we won the Conference League, the celebration was unbelievable. I’ve never seen scenes like that — not even after my Champions League victories.”
A Message to the Fans
Mourinho was clear about one thing: Roma’s supporters should never be blamed.
“My Roma is over, I won’t say more. But one thing — nobody should blame the fans if the team doesn’t win. The supporters are the ones who help the team. Nobody should touch them.”
It’s a powerful statement — and one that reinforces the special bond he built with the Roman crowd.
Praise for Chivu
Mourinho also turned his attention to Inter Milan and its current coach Cristian Chivu.
“I’m happy for him if Inter win the Scudetto,” Mourinho said. “When I coached him, I didn’t think he would become a manager. He wasn’t a ‘chosen one’, but he worked, studied, and earned it.”
A backhanded compliment — but ultimately recognition of Chivu’s growth.
“He didn’t just appear. He built his path.”
On Italy and Its Future
Mourinho also weighed in on the struggles of the Italian national team.
“You don’t need a foreign coach,” he said. “You have Massimiliano Allegri, Antonio Conte, and many others.”
Instead, he pointed to deeper structural issues — particularly youth development — and even endorsed Giovanni Malagò as a potential leader to bring change.
“I’d go with M&M: Malagò and Max,” he joked.
Results Over Philosophy
Never one to shy away from controversy, Mourinho also took aim at modern football narratives.
“This idea that style of play matters more than results is the biggest lie in football,” he said.
For Mourinho, winning remains the ultimate measure — a philosophy that has defined his entire career.
Roma, Forever a Chapter Apart
Mourinho may have moved on, but his connection to Roma clearly hasn’t faded.
From lifting the club’s first European trophy in decades to creating a lasting emotional legacy, his time in the capital remains one of the most impactful chapters in recent club history.
And judging by his words, it’s a chapter he’ll never forget.
