Why José Mourinho didn’t take the Italy job?

José Mourinho could have become the new head coach of Italy. The former Inter Milan and AS Roma manager was seriously considered as a successor to Luciano Spalletti. Here’s why the deal fell through.

According to La Repubblica, talks had even begun, and Adidas, the Azzurri’s sponsor, was ready to help cover his salary. But two major obstacles ended the negotiations. The first: Fenerbahçe, the Turkish club Mourinho has just joined, refused to let him go without compensation. The second, and more decisive: Gianluigi Buffon. The chief of delegation for the Italian national team simply blocked the appointment of the “Special One.”

Buffon wanted a different profile, someone more in tune with the DNA of Italian football. A coach who could speak to the hearts of the players and embody a fresh start ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. For him, Mourinho, despite his impressive track record, wasn’t the right fit. During the presentation of Gennaro Gattuso as the new head coach, Buffon confirmed this change of direction:

At this level, there are no good or bad coaches, only those who fit the moment. And this was the right time for Rino.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr