“I Don’t Think the FA Hires a Jose Mourinho” – Rio Ferdinand Rules Out 60YO Legend’s Return to England After AS Roma Sacking

After AS Roma’s abrupt sacking, Jose Mourinho was heavily linked to Saudi Arabia’s Al Shabab. Despite getting closer than ever, the Portuguese boss himself recently ruled out the move. Therefore, rumors now revolve around the 60-year-old’s potential return to England, either to join an English Premier League side or succeed Gareth Southgate at the National Team headquarters. Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, however, thinks Mourinho has a snowball’s chance in hell for him to return, citing a ‘difference in character and personality‘.

For the time being, the soccer veteran has moved past the Special One’s much-anticipated debut as a national team’s boss. Among other things, Jose Mourinho’s future became a talking point in the latest episode of Rio Ferdinand’s Presents FIVE podcast. Other hosts claimed he might replace Southgate as the Three Lions’ boss. Ferdinand replied, “I don’t think the FA would hire a Jose Mourinho, I would. But I don’t think the FA… They are not going from a Gareth Southgate to Mourinho. That’s too big of a difference in character and personality.” From man managing to long-lasting positive cultures, both managers, indeed, differ a lot from each other.

Southgate is famous for his effective man-management and has drawn praise for creating a positive culture in the English NT’s dressing room. Jose Mourinho, despite being the successful boss he is, has attracted a lot of infamy for his temper-driven antics and reactive approach to management. Unlike clubs, National Teams might not have the flavor for that kind of drama. Besides, Southgate will continue with England even after this year’s UEFA Euro 2024. The FA might take a drastic step only if England perform very poorly at the Euro. Considering the current squad’s depth, England is likely to dominate. Having ruled out his prospects in the English NT, Ferdinand soon evaluated the Special One’s potential return to the English Premier League.

After disagreeing with England’s hot seat prospect, Rio Ferdinand roots for Jose Mourinho’s EPL return

In light of Jose Mourinho’s historic previous stints with the club, rumors have it that he could return to Chelsea for a 3rd time. Despite the club’s heavy spending, they are struggling to make the mark with Mauricio Pochettino. However, Rio Ferdinand still thinks the Portuguese boss cannot return to Chelsea. “No chance. They are going backwards. These Americans don’t go backwards like that. I think they are going to stay with Pochettino,” claimed Rio Ferdinand, ruling out the Chelsea move.

READ MORE: Ex-AS Roma Boss Fabio Capello Blasts American Billionaire Dan Friedkin For Sacking Jose Mourinho

Furthermore, he added he doesn’t think Jose Mourinho will switch to Newcastle United either. Despite the Magpies’ struggles under Eddie Howe, the icon thinks they will not immediately sack him. Anyhow, Rio Ferdinand concluded his takes by saying he badly wants to see the Special One back in the EPL, instead of continuing in Italy or elsewhere.

What do you think? Where should Jose Mourinho head next? Tell us in the comments.

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