Surprises are a major part and parcel of the game. The latest bombshell comes in the form of a two-year ban slapped on the Argentine World Cup winner, Papu Gomez, following a failed doping test. However, it’s not the suspension of Gomez; it’s the brutal jab thrown by the ever-controversial Jose Mourinho that’s making headlines.
The soccer world is still reeling from the news of Papu Gomez’s two-year doping ban, with many left wondering what the future holds for the former Argentina international. However, while Gomez is still trying to come to terms with his punishable offense, he has been dealt another blow by AS Roma boss Jose Mourinho.
Mourinho’s scathing response to Papu Gomez
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Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho’s biting remarks on the former Sevilla midfielder have set the stage for the rivalry and spat. The feud between Mourinho and Gomez dates back to their encounter in the Europa League final last season, when Papu Gomez, playing for Sevilla, clinched victory over Mourinho’s Roma. The Argentine took a shot at Mourinho recently, by stating, “Mourinho? I only have one memory of him, and that is winning the Europa League with Sevilla against him a few months ago.”
🇦🇷 Papu Gómez: "Mourinho? I only have one memory of him, and that is me winning the Europa League with Sevilla against him."
🇵🇹 Mourinho: "I have a cough… but I won't take any syrup or pills. Or I might have some trouble passing doping control." pic.twitter.com/LpBjcN4ffT
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) October 23, 2023
However, after Roma secured a thrilling 1-0 victory over Gomez’s current side FC Monza, Mourinho couldn’t resist the temptation to strike back. In the post-match conference, the manager was in a particularly combative mood, and when asked about Papu Gomez’s earlier remarks, he said, “Gomez did not play in the Europa League Final, I think he did play against Juventus after getting a positive result.”
Mourinho went on to mock Gomez’s explanation for the positive test, claiming, “In any case, I don’t want to talk about this. If I get a cough, then I won’t take that syrup, or else I will be in trouble too.”
Known for his contesting and critical approach, the Portuguese coach has yet again demonstrated his stance and flair for controversy. Mourinho’s comments are a clear swipe at Papu Gomez, and it is evident that the Roma boss isn’t happy with the Argentine’s reaction and comments. Though Gomez has denied any wrongdoing in his doping fiasco, fans will be eagerly waiting for any update in this latest feud.
Papu Gomez’s controversial defense amidst the doping scandal
In the aftermath of the shocking doping news, Gomez’s career has been marred. He offered a controversial stance while defending his participation in doping. In his public statement after the ban, the Argentine claimed that the positive result was due to ‘accidentally ingesting’ his son’s cough medicine.
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As the dust settles from this altercation, Mourinho’s Roma must prepare for upcoming clashes against Slavia Prague and Inter Milan. However, the former Chelsea boss will be absent from the touchline during the Inter Milan fixture, as he received a red card for his conduct after Roma’s late winner against Gomez’s Monza.
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