As Chelsea fans, it’s always intriguing to see former Blues manager Jose Mourinho linked with a return to the Premier League. In a recent interview, Alan Shearer has fueled those rumors, suggesting that the “Special One” could be set for a sensational comeback to English football, and name-checking Everton and Newcastle United as possible destinations.
Mourinho, who gave Chelsea fans some of the club’s most memorable moments, first took the Premier League by storm in the mid-2000s, winning back-to-back league titles and three domestic cups at Stamford Bridge. He returned to Chelsea a decade ago for a second spell, where he added another Premier League title to his list of achievements. Although his subsequent tenures at Manchester United and Tottenham didn’t reach the same heights, Mourinho’s impact on the English game is undeniable.
Currently managing Turkish side Fenerbahce, Mourinho has recently hinted at an openness to return to the Premier League. Speaking to Betfair, Shearer acknowledged Mourinho’s recent comments and noted, “Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho has been back in the news and media a lot recently, and the one thing you cannot do is underestimate him and his record.”
Mourinho’s comments that “nobody watches the Turkish league” have caught attention, and Shearer believes it’s all part of Mourinho’s larger strategy. “He creates headlines, whether that’s for winning trophies or being brutally honest… He is box office, and I think there’s always a message he’s trying to get across in the background, so it wouldn’t surprise me if this was him edging for a move back to the Premier League,” Shearer said.
In terms of potential destinations, Shearer pointed out that Roma, Mourinho’s recent club, is nearing a purchase of Everton. “Is there a subliminal message in there for what his future holds?” Shearer speculated. While he noted that any Premier League club would be interested in Mourinho’s record, Shearer also highlighted Mourinho’s fearless approach: “He isn’t scared of telling it like it is at the football club, so he’s going to tell it like it is and he’s not afraid of causing chaos.”
There’s also the possibility of a move to Newcastle United, with Shearer referencing Mourinho’s respect for the club and its legendary manager, Sir Bobby Robson. “We know he’s always spoken very highly of Newcastle, and the link comes with his connection to Sir Bobby Robson,” Shearer shared. “He’s always complimented the stadium, the atmosphere, and the fans thanks to that link, but Eddie [Howe] is rightfully going nowhere at this moment in time.”
For Chelsea fans, it’s always a thrill to see a former manager like Mourinho make headlines. With his remarkable achievements and unique character, there’s no doubt that if he does return to the Premier League, all eyes will be on him.