José Mourinho Reflects on Real Madrid Tenure and Relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo
José Mourinho has spoken candidly about his time at Real Madrid, describing it as an invaluable experience both personally and professionally. The Portuguese coach, who joined the Spanish giants in 2010 and left three years later to return to Chelsea, reflected on his spell at the Bernabéu during an interview with Portuguese broadcaster TVI on Friday.
Mourinho’s departure from Real Madrid in 2013 paved the way for Carlo Ancelotti, who took over from Paris Saint-Germain before succeeding the Portuguese manager. Looking back, Mourinho expressed no regrets about his time in Spain, stating that he would make the same choices if given the opportunity again.
“It was an experience as a man and as a coach that I would do again without any hesitation,” Mourinho said, emphasizing the profound impact the period had on his career.
When asked about his relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, who was then a key figure at Real Madrid and a Ballon d’Or winner, Mourinho was notably respectful and positive. Contrary to some public perceptions of tension, the Chelsea manager dismissed any notion of hostility between them.
“There’s no special relationship,” Mourinho explained. “He plays for Real Madrid, I’m the manager of Chelsea. We don’t usually bump into each other on the street corner. But I have good memories of him.”
He praised Ronaldo’s remarkable goal-scoring ability and credited the Portuguese forward for helping him achieve significant success with the club, including winning the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.
“Cristiano is a goal machine,” Mourinho added. “He helped me become a champion, and I probably helped him become a champion too. We all help each other. Together, we made history by winning the league with 100 points against the best Barcelona side in history.”
Mourinho highlighted the mutual respect and cooperation that underpinned their time working together, framing it as a productive partnership that contributed to one of Real Madrid’s most memorable seasons.
He concluded by wishing Ronaldo well for the future, underlining the high regard in which he still holds the forward. “I have excellent memories of Cristiano Ronaldo as a player, and I wish him the best for his career.”
Mourinho’s comments shed light on a period marked by intense competition and achievement, while also dispelling rumours of discord between the two Portuguese icons.
As Mourinho continues his managerial career at Chelsea, his reflections offer valuable insight into his approach to leadership and the relationships that have shaped his journey in football’s elite circles.
