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Mourinho Reignites the Debate: “The Best Clubs Are Run by Coaches With No History”
José Mourinho never goes unnoticed. After another tough result, the Portuguese coach once again shifted the spotlight with a statement that raised eyebrows across Europe.
A Defeat That Opens Old Wounds
Results can hurt, performances can disappoint, but José Mourinho’s words are rarely insignificant. Following Benfica’s 2–0 defeat to Juventus at the Allianz Stadium, the spotlight quickly shifted from the scoreboard to the press room.
Goals from Khéphren Thuram and Weston McKennie left the Portuguese side in an increasingly uncomfortable position in Europe, clinging to slim hopes of extending their international campaign after already being eliminated from domestic cup competitions.
Mourinho, Unfiltered as Ever
In his post-match press conference, The Special One spoke with trademark candor, openly admitting that he would be willing to coach Juventus if the opportunity arose. He then followed it with a pointed remark aimed squarely at some of his peers.
“It surprises me that the best clubs in the world are being run by coaches with no history. On the other hand, when I think of Allegri at Milan, Gasperini at Roma, or Spalletti at Juventus, it never surprises me.”
As usual, the message was clear — even if the targets were not explicitly named.
Reading Between the Lines
Mourinho mentioned only Italian clubs, all of them sharing one key detail: they changed coaches last summer. Notably absent from his comments was Napoli, now in its second season under Antonio Conte.
That omission has fueled speculation that the Portuguese coach may have been referring to Cristian Chivu, who replaced Simone Inzaghi at Inter ahead of the current campaign.
A Name on Everyone’s Lips
The theory is not far-fetched. Before taking charge of the Nerazzurri, Chivu had managed just 13 Serie A matches with Parma, in addition to his work with Inter’s youth teams. A résumé that contrasts sharply with the elite pedigree Mourinho values — and often defends.
Whether intentional or not, the comment has reopened a familiar debate: experience versus new blood at Europe’s biggest clubs.
Once again, José Mourinho proved that even in defeat, he knows how to control the narrative. His team may be struggling on the pitch, but his words ensured that the conversation quickly moved beyond the final score — exactly where he often prefers it.
