It should come as no surprise that José Mourinho is currently in talks to join Al Shabab in Saudi Arabia. The Portuguese manager, recently sacked by AS Roma, had been discussing the possibility of coaching in the Gulf country with his agent Jorge Mendes. In fact, Mourinho himself stated in October that he believed he would one day coach in Saudi Arabia. Mendes further confirmed that it was only a matter of time before this opportunity arose. While the deal is not finalized, a move to Saudi Arabia makes a lot of sense for Mourinho, considering a few key factors.
One of the main reasons why Mourinho’s potential move to Saudi Arabia is significant is the need for the Saudi league to attract big names. Despite Mourinho’s recent struggles and sackings from his past five jobs, his arrival in Saudi Arabia would be seen as a coup. Having such a high-profile coach in their league would immensely raise its profile, especially in a time when success on the field has been lacking. The recent spending spree by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and the Public Investment Fund (PIF) aimed to elevate the Saudi Pro League. Last summer, they attempted to bring Mourinho to Saudi Arabia, even though he ultimately chose to stay at AS Roma. However, Mendes already has other clients and players in the league, and financially, a move to Saudi Arabia would be lucrative for Mourinho.
One of the primary reasons why Saudi Arabia has a great opportunity to land Mourinho is the decline in his reputation in European football. Despite a few triumphs, such as winning the Europa League with Manchester United and the Europa Conference League with AS Roma, Mourinho has faced a series of disappointments and controversies throughout his recent managerial career. His once-praised style of football is now viewed as outdated. Even with significant investment and support from Roma’s owners, Mourinho’s team has produced poor performances and failed to qualify for the Champions League. As a result, most major clubs in Europe are apprehensive about hiring Mourinho due to the risk of sacking him outweighing the chances of on-field success.
Perhaps Mourinho himself is seeking something different at this stage of his career. After all, he has been involved in professional football for a significant amount of time, with his famous Champions League win with Porto happening 20 years ago. Mourinho’s frustration was evident during his time in Italy this season, with several incidents of being sent off, arguments with opposing coaches and players, quarrels with the media, and eventually falling out with his own club. While his feisty and committed nature remain, the negative baggage surrounding him has started to overshadow his managerial abilities. A fresh start in Saudi Arabia could provide a new platform for Mourinho, unless an offer to rebuild his reputation emerges elsewhere in Europe. However, the likelihood of such an offer is diminishing.
The Inevitability of Mourinho in Saudi Arabia
Whether it happens now or in the near future, the probability of Mourinho coaching in Saudi Arabia remains high. The Saudi league’s quest for growth and recognition, coupled with Mourinho’s tarnished European reputation, creates an environment where both parties can benefit. While negotiations with Al Shabab could fall through, or a more compelling offer may arise from a national team or European club, it seems almost inevitable that Mourinho will ultimately make the move to the Gulf country. Saudi Arabia offers him the opportunity for a fresh start and a chance to reinvent himself in a new footballing landscape.
The talks between José Mourinho and Al Shabab signify a potential fresh start for the Portuguese manager in Saudi Arabia. With the Saudi league’s ambition to attract big names and Mourinho’s declining reputation in European football, a move to the Gulf country presents a suitable opportunity. While uncertainties still exist, a switch to Saudi Arabia offers Mourinho a chance to rejuvenate his career and overcome the negative perceptions that have recently plagued him. Whether this move happens now, in the near future, or never, the discussions between Mourinho and Al Shabab highlight the potential for a significant change in his managerial journey.
Leave a Reply