Roma has officially announced Jose Mourinho’s departure from the club, terminating his contract after a disappointing run of form that placed them in the ninth position in the Serie A standings.
Despite Mourinho expressing his desire to continue with Roma, sources indicate that the decision to end his tenure was primarily initiated by the club. The Portuguese manager’s contract was originally set to expire in the summer, marking the conclusion of his two-and-a-half-year stint at the Stadio Olimpico.
As of now, Mourinho reportedly has no concrete plans for his next move, and his departure from Roma does not stem from an imminent opportunity elsewhere. Although recent speculations linked him with a potential return to the Premier League, specifically with Chelsea and Newcastle United, no firm commitments have been established at this stage.
In the case of Chelsea, the ownership is inclined to exercise patience with current head coach Mauricio Pochettino, despite a somewhat indifferent start to the season.
The decision-makers at Chelsea are reportedly planning to assess Pochettino’s performance in the summer, possibly delaying any managerial changes until then. Newcastle United, facing a challenging season under boss Eddie Howe, also intends to afford more time to the under-pressure manager, who has grappled with an extensive injury list.
Mourinho has previously expressed his openness to managing in Saudi Arabia, and sources suggest that he could receive a contract offer from the Saudi Pro League by the summer if he remains without a managerial position.
While Al Hilal had previously considered Mourinho for a managerial role, they are currently performing well, challenging for the Asian Champions League title, making an immediate change less likely. Nonetheless, Al Ahli and Al Nassr, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, are potential destinations that may seek Mourinho’s services.
The prospect of international management also looms for Mourinho, with several managerial vacancies anticipated after Euro 2024 and the Copa America, leading up to the 2026 World Cup.
The former Chelsea and Manchester United manager is reportedly open to taking the England job if Gareth Southgate departs after the Euros, although Southgate has expressed his desire to continue in his current role with the Three Lions.
