Following his recent sacking by Roma, José Mourinho is reportedly in discussions to become the new manager of Saudi Pro League team Al Shabab FC. While negotiations are still ongoing, there is a possibility that Mourinho may choose to pursue other opportunities in Europe. Al Shabab, currently ranked 11th in the Saudi Pro League, is looking to replace their struggling manager Igor Biscan. The team boasts an array of notable players, including Yannick Ferreira-Carrasco, Éver Banega, Romain Saïss, Habib Diallo, and various Saudi Arabia internationals. Mourinho has long expressed his interest in working in the Gulf state and already has connections through his agent, Jorge Mendes.
According to an ESPN source, Mourinho is engaged in talks with Al Shabab’s sporting director, Domenico Tite. Simultaneously, his agent, Jorge Mendes, is negotiating with the team on Mourinho’s behalf. These discussions indicate a serious interest from both parties. However, it is worth noting that Mourinho has also received preliminary offers from European clubs. Therefore, it remains uncertain whether he will ultimately choose to join Al Shabab or pursue other opportunities closer to home.
Al Shabab FC’s current position in the Saudi Pro League presents a pressing need for a managerial change. The team has only managed to win five out of 19 league games this season, a lackluster performance that has contributed to their 11th place ranking. The club is eager to turn their fortunes around and believes that appointing Mourinho could provide the spark they need. However, with discussions still ongoing, there is no guarantee that the deal will be finalized.
Mourinho has openly expressed his willingness to work in the Gulf state, stating his conviction during an interview in October. He even revealed that he had rejected a lucrative offer from a Saudi team while still the coach of Roma. The potential move to Al Shabab would finally fulfill Mourinho’s long-standing desire to work in Saudi Arabia. Notably, if the deal goes through swiftly, Mourinho’s first game in charge could see him facing his former team, Roma, in a friendly match in Riyadh.
If Mourinho’s negotiations with Al Shabab progress positively, it would mark the third time that his agent, Jorge Mendes, secures a deal in the Saudi Pro League. Mendes currently represents Jorge Jesus at Al Hilal and Luis Castro at Al Nassr, and it seems that he has developed a strong presence in Saudi football. Having a trusted agent with established connections can further facilitate Mourinho’s potential transition to Al Shabab.
José Mourinho’s potential move to Al Shabab FC in the Saudi Pro League represents an intriguing development in his managerial career. While initial talks are ongoing, Mourinho has also received interest from European clubs, leaving his final decision uncertain. Al Shabab FC, in need of a managerial change, views Mourinho as a potential catalyst for their revival. With previous discussions indicating Mourinho’s desire to work in Saudi Arabia, it seems that he might finally have the opportunity to do so. Ultimately, time will tell whether Mourinho will take charge at Al Shabab or opt for another path in his storied career.
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