Jose Mourinho’s Sacking Shocked Argentina Boss Lionel Scaloni: “He Had Roma in His Heart”

In 2021, under the leadership of Jose Mourinho, AS Roma achieved their first silverware in 14 years through the Europa Conference League. Fast forward to 2024, the esteemed Italian club has sacked ‘The Special One’. This extraordinary measure caught even Argentina’s World Cup-winning coach Lionel Scaloni off guard. He was unprepared for such a decisive step from AS Roma.

As an unfortunate consequence of multiple sub-par performances coupled with increasing discontent among loyal supporters, ‘The Wolves’ decided to curtail Mourinho’s contract ahead of its scheduled closure slated for summer. Subsequently, club legend Daniele De Rossi has now assumed responsibilities as interim coach.

Lionel Scaloni wasn’t prepared for Jose Mourinho’s sacking

In a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Lionel Scaloni offered his observations on the transformations occurring within Roma. As compiled by Calciomercato, the 45-year-old extended his sincere regards to De Rossi and stated, “I wish him well.” However, he also expressed his surprise at Mourinho’s departure, adding, “Meanwhile, let me say that Mourinho’s exoneration surprised me.”

Scaloni went on to mention the Portuguese manager’s emotional attachment to the Italian side. “He had Roma in his heart and his tears when he left Trigoria confirmed that,” concluded the Argentina boss. It certainly was a poignant departure, as Jose Mourinho was spotted shedding tears upon departing from the team’s training grounds.

This departure marked the end of a two-and-a-half-year journey for the 60-year-old with the Italian side. Even in his farewell message, the ex-Chelsea boss conveyed his deep emotions, stating, “Sweat, blood, tears, joy, sadness, love, brothers, history, heart, eternity.” This was the sixth time the Portuguese has been sacked. He was previously sacked by Chelsea (Twice), Real Madrid, Tottenham and Manchester United. As for Mourinho’s future endeavors, he certainly has an interesting opportunity knocking on his door.

Is Saudi Arabia the next country to receive ‘The Special One’ after Italy?

Given Jose Mourinho’s esteemed standing in the world of soccer, one may scarcely be surprised that he received a subsequent offer within a week after parting ways with Roma. This recent proposition is from the Saudi Arabian club Al Shabab, and negotiations are presently underway to establish an agreement. The legendary manager himself enlightened the public about his new potential function during a candid interview on the matter.

He asserted, “I know the Saudi sports project well and I am aware of all the details.” Interestingly, he was also approached earlier by Saudi clubs during his time at Roma, which he turned down.

Dive Deeper: How Much Has Jose Mourinho Earned From Sackings in His Career as He Parted Ways With AS Roma?

The ex-Real Madrid manager also plans to bring in international players to strengthen the team. Having cut his managerial teeth in Portugal, England, Spain, and Italy, it appears that steering this team in Saudi Arabia could be an unequivocally exciting prospect for Mourinho.

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.

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