My biggest regret is defying Florentino Perez order at Real Madrid – José Mourinho.
Source: http://www.richportaltv.com
José Mourinho, one of the most successful and charismatic football managers in history, has opened up about a decision he considers one of his biggest regrets. Reflecting on his time at Real Madrid, Mourinho spoke candidly about a pivotal moment in his career when he turned down a plea from Florentino Pérez, the club’s influential president, to remain at the helm of Los Blancos.
In a recent interview with Corriere dello Sport, Mourinho revealed the depth of Pérez’s persuasion. “He told me: ‘Don’t go now, you’ve already done the hard part, and the good stuff is yet to come. Stay at Real Madrid,” the Portuguese coach shared. Pérez, renowned for his ability to assemble footballing dynasties, believed that Mourinho had laid a foundation at the Santiago Bernabéu that would yield immense success. Mourinho had navigated three challenging years at the club, steering the team through fierce battles with Pep Guardiola’s record-breaking Barcelona while maintaining a relentless pursuit of trophies.
Mourinho admitted that Pérez’s words gave him pause. The president was referencing the progress Real Madrid had made under Mourinho, particularly the breaking of Barcelona’s dominance in La Liga during the 2011–2012 season, where Madrid set a points record en route to the title. Despite the ups and downs, Mourinho had instilled a sense of belief in a squad that was becoming increasingly capable of reclaiming European glory.
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However, despite Pérez’s efforts, Mourinho’s mind was already set on a return to Chelsea. “But I wanted to return to Chelsea after three tough years in Spain!” Mourinho explained. His tenure in Spain was marked by intense scrutiny, relentless media attention, and high-pressure clashes both on and off the pitch. While he managed to secure a Copa del Rey, a La Liga title, and a Spanish Super Cup during his time at Madrid, the elusive Champions League title remained out of reach. This lack of European success, combined with personal and professional challenges, played a significant role in his decision to leave.
Mourinho’s return to Chelsea in 2013 was motivated by his enduring affection for the club where he had previously achieved iconic status. During his first stint at Stamford Bridge, he led Chelsea to consecutive Premier League titles and a string of domestic trophies, earning him the nickname “The Special One.” His emotional connection to Chelsea and its fans made the allure of a second spell irresistible, even if it meant leaving behind unfinished business in Madrid.
Looking back, Mourinho now acknowledges that Pérez’s advice held merit. Real Madrid would go on to dominate European football in the years following his departure, winning four Champions League titles in five seasons under Carlo Ancelotti and Zinedine Zidane. Mourinho’s foundation undoubtedly played a role in that success, but he often wonders what might have been had he stayed to reap the rewards of his efforts.
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“I don’t regret my time at Chelsea,” Mourinho clarified, “but sometimes I think about what could have been at Real Madrid. Saying no to Florentino Pérez remains one of my biggest regrets. He saw something I couldn’t see at the time.”
Mourinho’s reflection offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a manager often associated with unwavering confidence. It underscores the challenges, pressures, and emotional weight of making career decisions at the highest level of football.