Rio Ferdinand has expressed his strong desire to witness Jose Mourinho make a triumphant return for a third stint at Chelsea following his recent dismissal from Roma.
The former Manchester United icon is open to the notion of ‘The Special One’ taking the helm at Newcastle and England as well. However, he acknowledges the improbability of any of these scenarios materializing.
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Mourinho’s departure from Roma came after a tenure of two and a half years, during which the Italian club experienced a challenging season, securing only eight victories out of 20 Serie A matches.
Despite the setback, it appears that Mourinho won’t remain unemployed for an extended period.
The 60-year-old is reportedly engaged in discussions with Napoli, and there are also speculations linking him with Saudi Pro League teams and a potential foray into international management.
Throughout his illustrious career, Mourinho has overseen the operations of some of Europe’s premier clubs, including Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Tottenham.
Chelsea holds a unique place in his managerial history as the only club he has returned to, achieving considerable success with three Premier League titles, the FA Cup, and three League Cups.
Ferdinand envisions a blockbuster scenario if Mourinho were to make an unlikely third return to Stamford Bridge.
‘To Chelsea? Mourinho? No chance,’ the former Man United and England defender said on the Vibe with Five podcast.
‘These guys, these Americans [Chelsea’s owners] don’t go backwards like that. Not backwards in talent or class… they’re not going backwards and getting [a former manager].
‘I would love to see Jose back there, I’ve got to be honest. Me, personally, Jose, please, I hope you get the job if [Mauricio] Pochettino doesn’t do well. I think they’re gonna stay with Pochettino.’
Beyond Chelsea, Ferdinand entertains the idea that Mourinho could be a suitable match for either Newcastle or the England national team. He goes as far as confessing that he would personally appoint the Portuguese manager to lead the Three Lions.
‘If he doesn’t go Chelsea, where’s he go? Newcastle? I would love to see him there,’ he added.
‘But Eddie Howe, man, he’s been unreal. I wouldn’t want to see Eddie go. ‘I don’t think the FA [would] hire a Jose Mourinho. I would.
‘But I don’t think the FA… they’re not going from Gareth Southgate to Mourinho. That’s too big of a difference in character and personality. It’s not happening.
‘[That’s like going from] ready salted to vindaloo, bruv. It’s not happening.’
