The legendary figure of Manchester United, Rio Ferdinand, has expressed openness to the idea of “The Special One,” Jose Mourinho, taking charge at Newcastle and even managing the England national team. However, Ferdinand acknowledges the improbability of these scenarios becoming a reality.
Following Mourinho’s departure from Roma after a tenure of two and a half years, during which he faced challenges with the team’s Serie A performance, the 60-year-old manager seems poised for a swift return to the football scene. Reports suggest ongoing discussions with Napoli, alongside rumored links to Saudi Pro League clubs and potential international management opportunities.
Mourinho boasts an illustrious managerial career, having led several of Europe’s top clubs, including Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur. Notably, he returned to Chelsea for a second stint, clinching three Premier League titles, the FA Cup, and three League Cups.
Ferdinand, discussing the prospects of Mourinho returning to Stamford Bridge for a third time, deems it highly unlikely. He asserts that the current owners of Chelsea, Americans, are unlikely to backtrack on their approach by reappointing a previous manager, emphasizing their commitment to talent and class in their decisions.
Expressing personal interest in seeing Mourinho back at Chelsea, Ferdinand adds a conditional note, stating his preference for Mourinho in case Mauricio Pochettino does not excel in his current role. However, he maintains the belief that Chelsea will stick with Pochettino.
Considering alternatives for Mourinho, Ferdinand contemplates the possibility of him fitting well with either Newcastle or even managing the England national team.
He expresses a desire to witness Mourinho at Newcastle but acknowledges the impressive performance of the current manager, Eddie Howe.
However, Ferdinand casts doubts on the Football Association (FA) appointing Mourinho as the England manager. He suggests that the transition from Gareth Southgate to Mourinho represents a significant divergence in character and demeanor, deeming it an unlikely scenario.
In his vivid analogy, Ferdinand likens the shift from Southgate to Mourinho as going “from ready salted to vindaloo,” emphasizing the extreme difference in styles. He concludes that such a drastic change is not anticipated within the FA.
While Mourinho’s future destination remains uncertain, Ferdinand’s musings provide insight into potential scenarios, acknowledging the unpredictability of football managerial appointments.
