Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho launches savage attack on Barcelona over Negreira case while praising Italy for Calciopoli

While his comments on Spanish football dominated the headlines, the context of the interview was Mourinho’s emotional return to Rome. It marks the first time he has stepped back into the Stadio Olimpico since his departure from the Giallorossi in early 2024. During his tenure in the capital, Mourinho achieved legendary status by guiding the club to the inaugural Europa Conference League trophy and reaching the Europa League final a year later.

The current Roma boss, Gian Piero Gasperini, acknowledged the unique bond between the fans and the man known as ‘The Special One.’ “There surely was love for Mourinho from our fans, so he’ll deserve all the recognition he’ll receive. Those are things people feel, and you can’t stop them. At the same time, I’m convinced that when the game begins, all emotions will be set aside and people will support Roma exclusively,” Gasperini said.