A divisive figure in European football

Jose Mourinho is one of the most successful and controversial managers in the history of European football. He has won trophies in Portugal, England, Italy, Spain and France, but he has also left behind a trail of disputes, criticisms and controversies. His style of management, both on and off the pitch, has polarized opinions among fans, players and pundits.

Mourinho is known for his pragmatic and defensive approach to the game, often sacrificing flair and creativity for solidity and efficiency. He is also notorious for his mind games and provocative comments, which he uses to create a siege mentality among his players and to deflect attention from his team's weaknesses. He has clashed with rival managers, referees, journalists and even his own employers, sometimes leading to his dismissal or resignation.
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A remarkable achievement in the Europa League

Despite his controversial reputation, Mourinho has proven himself to be a master of winning trophies, especially in cup competitions. He has won the Champions League twice, with Porto in 2004 and Inter Milan in 2010, and the Europa League three times, with Porto in 2003, Manchester United in 2017 and Roma in 2023.

His latest triumph with Roma was perhaps his most remarkable achievement, considering the circumstances. He took over a team that had finished seventh in Serie A the previous season, 29 points behind champions Juventus. He had to deal with a squad that lacked depth and quality, as well as injuries to key players such as Lorenzo Pellegrini and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. He also faced fierce competition from teams such as Arsenal, Napoli, Lyon and Villarreal.

However, Mourinho managed to overcome these challenges and lead Roma to their first European trophy since 1991. He guided them through a tough group stage, where they finished second behind Arsenal. He then masterminded a series of impressive knockout victories over Real Sociedad, Ajax, Napoli and Lyon. In the final, he faced his former club Manchester United, who had won the Europa League under his management four years earlier.

The final was a tense and thrilling affair, with both teams creating chances and scoring goals. Roma took the lead through Tammy Abraham in the 12th minute, but United equalized through Bruno Fernandes in the 25th minute. The score remained 1-1 until the end of normal time, forcing the game into extra time. In the 101st minute, Roma regained the lead through Nicolo Zaniolo, who scored a stunning solo goal after dribbling past three defenders. United pushed for an equalizer, but Roma held on to secure a historic 2-1 win.

A legacy of success and controversy

Mourinho's Europa League triumph with Roma was his 26th major trophy as a manager, making him one of the most decorated coaches in the world. It also enhanced his reputation as a specialist in cup competitions, where he has shown his ability to motivate his players and devise effective tactics for different opponents.

However, his success also came at a cost. He alienated some of his players with his harsh criticism and public humiliation. He angered some of the Roma fans with his defensive and boring style of play. He annoyed some of the Italian media with his arrogant and disrespectful attitude. He also sparked controversy with some of his actions during the Europa League campaign, such as celebrating provocatively in front of the Ajax fans after eliminating them in the quarter-finals.

Mourinho's reign at Roma was therefore a typical example of his career as a manager: full of success and controversy. He will always be admired by some and despised by others, but he will never be ignored.