It’s been a rollercoaster ride for José Mourinho in recent years, and it appears that a new chapter in his career might be on the horizon. The Portuguese manager, who was recently sacked by AS Roma, is reportedly in talks to join Al Shabab in Saudi Arabia. This potential move doesn’t come as a surprise, as Mourinho himself has expressed his interest in coaching in the Gulf country. While the deal is yet to be finalized, there are compelling reasons why Saudi Arabia could be a fitting destination for the two-time Champions League winner.
One of the driving factors behind Mourinho’s potential move to Saudi Arabia is the league’s quest for growth. The Saudi league, known as the Saudi Pro League, aims to boost its profile and attract global attention. Mourinho’s name recognition and reputation would undoubtedly raise the league’s profile, both domestically and internationally. Despite his recent struggles in Europe, there are still parts of the world where Mourinho’s arrival would be seen as a major coup. The Saudi league needs big names to continue its growth, and Mourinho’s presence would help achieve that.
Financially, a move to Saudi Arabia would also make sense for Mourinho. While he was one of the highest-paid managers in Europe during his time at Roma, the allure of higher earnings could be tempting. According to sources, Mourinho was earning €10 million a year before tax at Roma. His agent, Jorge Mendes, has assured him that a move to the Gulf would result in even greater financial gains. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) in Saudi Arabia has already displayed its willingness to invest heavily in football, as seen in their massive spending spree during the previous transfer window. Given Mourinho’s marketability and commercial appeal, a move to Saudi Arabia could be a lucrative one.
One of the reasons Saudi Arabia presents a great opportunity for Mourinho is that his stock has fallen dramatically in European football. Recent disappointments and controversies have tarnished his once-illustrious image. Despite winning trophies such as the Europa League with Manchester United and the Europa Conference League with Roma, Mourinho has failed to deliver consistent on-field success. His style of play is now considered outdated and his reputation has suffered as a result. The majority of top clubs in Europe’s major leagues might be hesitant to take a gamble on hiring Mourinho, as the risk of sacking him outweighs the potential on-field rewards.
Perhaps Mourinho is ready for something different. After decades in the football industry, it’s understandable that he may be seeking a fresh start. His frustrations in Italy this season were evident, with frequent disciplinary issues, clashes with opposition coaches and players, and strained relationships with the media and his own bosses. While Mourinho’s competitiveness remains, the negativity surrounding him has overshadowed his positive contributions. If there isn’t an offer to restore his reputation elsewhere in Europe, Saudi Arabia could provide the opportunity for Mourinho to rejuvenate his career.
While it’s uncertain whether the talks with Al Shabab will yield a definitive agreement, it’s clear that a move to Saudi Arabia is almost inevitable for Mourinho. The combination of financial incentives, the Saudi league’s desire for star power, and Mourinho’s diminishing European stock create a perfect storm for this potential transfer. Whether it happens now, in the summer, or next year, Mourinho’s move to Saudi Arabia could mark the beginning of an intriguing chapter in his career. Only time will tell if this move will rejuvenate his coaching prowess and offer a fresh start for one of the most well-known managers in football.
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