Chelsea ‘hold talks’ with former manager over sensational return as fresh Pochettino competition emerges
Chelsea have reportedly ‘held talks’ with former manager Jose Mourinho over a potential return to Stamford Bridge, but it could be a challenge to prise him away from Roma.
The serial-winning manager enjoyed two unbelievably successful stints with the Blues, helping them to lift eight major trophies.
Now, Chelsea could certainly do with bringing in an experienced manager like Mourinho, as they look to recover from what has been a dismal season.
Indeed, the London club currently sit in 12th place in the Premier League table- on track for their worst campaign since 1994. Interim manager Frank Lampard has failed to turn their form around, too, losing his first five games in charge.
This is despite club co-owner Todd Boehly spending over £600m on new signings this summer. Chelsea will also receive a big financial hit as they miss out on Champions League football.
Bringing in a manager like Mourinho could be exactly what the Blues need to get themselves back on track. Also, it would probably go down well with their supporters.
Mauricio Pochettino remains the big favourite to take the helm, but a stunning return for the ‘special one’ isn’t off the cards just yet.
Chelsea ‘hold talks’ with Mourinho
According to Corriere dello Sport, Chelsea representatives met with Mourinho to discuss a potential return to the club next season.
They add that Pochettino and Julian Nagelsmann have also been spoken to, as Boehly and co weigh up their options.
However, Mourinho reportedly told the Blues that at the moment, he is happy at Roma. Although, has promised to give them a final decision at the end of the season.
It’s believed that the Portuguese coach’s decision could rest upon whether Roma qualify for the Champions League. The Giallorossi are currently in sixth place in Serie A, but only outside the top four on goal difference.
Although, Dello Sport claim that Mourinho ‘isn’t desperate’ for a return to Chelsea regardless. As a result, Pochettino remains the firm favourite to succeed Lampard.
As mentioned, Mourinho oversaw two successful periods at Chelsea. In his initial stint between 2004 and 2007, he guided his team to two league titles, an FA Cup, two League Cups and a Community Shield.
Then, between 2013 and 2015, he helped the Blues secure another league title – making him one of the most successful managers in Premier League history.
Since, Mourinho has enjoyed less successful managerial roles at Manchester United and Tottenham.
For now, he seems happy at Roma, but if they fail to qualify for the Champions League, this could be one to keep an eye on in the coming months.
