Roma’s immediate attention is on Sunday’s Serie A trip to Como, but their Champions League meeting with Real Madrid is rapidly approaching.
José Mourinho will return to the Stadio Olimpico on Wednesday, October 14, this time as Roma’s opponent. Ahead of the highly anticipated match, Gian Piero Gasperini discussed the Portuguese coach and the lasting relationship he built with the Giallorossi supporters.
Gasperini: “Mourinho Is a Special Person”
Speaking to Sky Sport, Gasperini was asked why Mourinho remains so loved in Rome despite an uneven domestic record during his time at the club.
“José is a special person,” Gasperini said. “Special people manage to achieve success beyond what happens on the pitch, because on the pitch he won the Conference League and reached a Europa League final.”
“Perhaps he did less well in the league, but he was appreciated so much—an incredible amount—by the supporters. Therefore, he has something special.”
Mourinho managed Roma between 2021 and 2024, ending the club’s long wait for a European trophy by winning the inaugural UEFA Conference League in 2022. He then led the Giallorossi to the Europa League final the following season.
Those achievements, combined with his intense defence of the club and its supporters, created an emotional connection that has remained strong since his departure.
Mourinho Prepares for Emotional Olimpico Return
The Champions League fixture will mark Mourinho’s first return to the Olimpico as an opposing coach since leaving Roma.
His presence will add another layer to an already significant European match, although Gasperini and his players must first concentrate on Como as they prepare for a demanding run of fixtures.
Once the Serie A game is complete, attention will turn to Mourinho’s return and Roma’s opportunity to test themselves against Real Madrid on one of European football’s biggest stages.
Leave a Reply