Jose Mourinho abandons Conference League gift from Roma players after dismissal

Jose Mourinho ex Roma ,manager || Imago

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Jose Mourinho ex Roma manager || Imago

Jose Mourinho abandons Conference League gift from Roma players after dismissal

Faruq Ibrahim 18:18 - 06.02.2024

Dismissed Roma boss Jose Mourinho reportedly abandoned a gift from his players after leaving the club.

In the aftermath of Jose Mourinho's abrupt departure from AS Roma, an intriguing story has emerged about a unique parting gift from his former players. 

The Portuguese tactician, who was relieved of his duties last month after nearly three years at the helm, left the club amidst a challenging season that saw Roma languishing in the ninth spot on the Serie A table.

Immediate Replacement and Mourinho's Hunt for New Challenges

Roma wasted no time in appointing a successor, swiftly turning to their former captain, Daniele de Rossi, who took on the role of interim manager. 

Remarkably, De Rossi has overseen three consecutive wins since stepping into the role, making an immediate impact.

However, it seems the news of Mourinho's departure did not sit well with the veteran manager, who is now exploring his options for a tenth managerial post at the age of 61.

José Mourinho recently tuned down a deal to manage in Saudi Arabia |Photo Credit: Imago
José Mourinho recently tuned down a deal to manage in Saudi Arabia |Photo Credit: Imago

The Gift Returned: A Symbol of Betrayal

Reports from Il Messaggero shed light on an unexpected twist in the story. It appears that Mourinho decided to return a gift presented to him by his squad following their victory in the Conference League. 

In 2022, Roma clinched the Conference League title with a 1-0 triumph over Feyenoord, thanks to Nicolo Zaniolo's first-half goal.

In celebration of this achievement, Mourinho's squad reportedly gifted him a ring to commemorate the historic win. Mourinho had held onto this sentimental keepsake since the night of the victory in Albania. 

However, upon his dismissal, he allegedly returned the ring, leaving it in the locker of team captain Lorenzo Pellegrini within the club's dressing room.

Feelings of Betrayal and Uncertainty

The reported gesture signifies Mourinho's sense of betrayal by his players, a sentiment that extended to the club's handling of his dismissal. 

Despite his occasionally frosty relationship with the squad, marked by public criticism, Mourinho earned the admiration of Roma's devoted fan base, who continued to sing his praises even after his departure.

In an official statement, Roma owners Dan and Ryan Friedkin expressed their gratitude to Mourinho for his dedication and efforts during his tenure, emphasizing the need for an immediate change in the club's best interests.

The former Chelsea, Manchester United, and Real Madrid boss, however, remains affected by his dismissal and is taking a reflective pause as he contemplates his next move in the world of football management. 

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