Jose Mourinho says he was ‘already dead’ when Roma sacked him on Budapest final day

José Mourinho has revealed he returned to Roma “already dead” after being sacked on the day of the 2023 Europa League final in Budapest. Speaking to Corriere dello Sport, Mourinho said Roma would always feel like home despite his acrimonious departure and insisted he holds no bitterness towards the club or its owners.

The Portuguese coach also dismissed comparisons with Roma legend Francesco Totti, saying the former captain was “untouchable”. Mourinho expects an emotional reception when he returns to the Olimpico with Real Madrid for their Champions League meeting on October 14, but said his priority will be preparing his team for the match.