Jose Mourinho Favoring Cristiano Ronaldo Reunion Amidst Fierce Tug-of-War Among Al Nassr and 2 Saudi Clubs for ‘The Special One’- Reports

When you’re Jose Mourinho, the world beats a path to your door. Ever since leaving AS Roma, the Portuguese tactician has remained in high demand, particularly outside of Europe. Amid several rumors from the EPL, MLS, and other leagues, three standout Saudi Arabian clubs have indulged in a tug-of-war to sign the experienced veteran. Reportedly, Mourinho has set his sights on reuniting with Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr. The legendary manager has been linked to becoming part of the Middle Eastern exodus for over a year.

As per @Nfcdiario on X, Mourinho has three offers on the table. Aside from Al Nassr, Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi league rivals, Al Ahli, and Al-Qadisiyah, who are in the 2nd-tier, are also keen to bring Mourinho. Although either of these offers looks promising, Mourinho’s preference remains Al Nassr. The Real Madrid icon is eager about the opportunity to coach the diversely experienced CR7. However, there is a catch. 

All these offers come with an expiration date. Mourinho would need to decide before the end of May and take charge before the 2024–25 pre-season kicks off. Notably, while Luis Castro’s contract with Al Nassr expires in the summer of 2025, Matthias Jaissle’s deal with Al Ahli runs until 2026. Additionally, Al-Qadisiyah is currently being led by interim manager Michel, who took over from Liverpool icon Robbie Fowler. Hence, it remains to be seen how either club will convince Mourinho. Interestingly, these aren’t the only 3 clubs desperate to get his signature. 

Earlier, as reported by Corriere dello Sport, the Special One had rejected offers from Al Hilal and Al Ahli to stay at Roma. However, there is one Saudi club that the ex-Porto manager once made a mention of.

Despite the possibility of reuniting with Cristiano Ronaldo, Jose Mourinho shows interest in leading Al Shabab ‘back to the podium’

Last month, the rumor mill intensified the speculations about Jose Mourinho coaching Al Shabab. In fact, when asked to comment on the rumors, he said, “I know the Saudi sports project well and I am aware of all the details. This is why I will present an expanded plan to bring Al Shabab back to the podium by strengthening the team’s ranks with international players during the next summer transfer market.” However, after his words, nobody heard about that deal advancing, as the veteran is still unemployed.

Notably, Jose Mourinho joining Al Shabab would be a huge blow for Cristiano Ronaldo and Al Nassr. However, with all these developments, it’s clear that several teams are interested in being coached by Mourinho. Therefore, either offer has the power to sway the mind of the Portuguese tactician. Amid all the chaos, let’s not rule out a return to the EPL as well!

READ MORE: Reigniting Cristiano Ronaldo’s Europe Return Hopes, Saudi Clubs Intensify Push for Champions League Inclusion- Reports