Mourinho was looking forward to his reunion with Chelsea, a club he managed in two stints, helping them win three Premier League titles. On Wednesday, the Portuguese coach returned to west London for a Champions League fixture against the Blues, however, the reunion turned out to be sour for the 62-year-old as Richard Rios’ 18th-minute own goal handed Enzo Maresca’s side all three points.
Speaking to TNT Sport Mourinho said: “Estevao is a talent. People might think he would take a while to adapt due to his youth, immaturity, and the competition he faces at Chelsea, but he’s here, playing at a higher level, and is a player with great potential.”
Mourinho was linked with the Brazil national team coaching job, until they approached ex-Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti and the Italian accepted the offer after leaving the Spanish giants in the summer.
Speaking on the Brazil job, Mourinho said: “No, not directly, not even the CBF. You know, in these things there are always a lot of people who talk: agents, intermediaries, former players… So, yes, I was contacted, but I tend to be reserved about it. However, no one from the CBF (reached out to him).”
The Blues approached the Champions League game on the back of a poor run of form that saw them winning only one game in their last five outings across all competitions. However, with the win over Benfica, Enzo Maresca’s received a much-needed confidence boost ahead of facing Liverpool at home on Saturday.
