Jose Mourinho didn’t hesitate when naming the best club he ever managed in his coaching career
In a revelation that has stunned many and sparked debate across the footballing world, José Mourinho has named Tottenham Hotspur as the best club he has ever managed in his illustrious career. The Portuguese tactician, known for his blunt honesty and high standards, didn’t hesitate when asked to reflect on his managerial journey and highlight the club that stood out the most to him.
“Tottenham is the best club I have ever managed,” Mourinho said in a recent interview. “And I don’t say this lightly. It’s not about trophies, it’s about connection, potential, and the way I felt about the club.”
The statement has taken fans by surprise especially considering Mourinho’s trophy-laden spells at clubs like Porto, Inter Milan, Chelsea, and Real Madrid. He led Porto to a Champions League title, Inter Milan to a historic treble, and Chelsea to multiple Premier League titles. But despite those successes, Mourinho insists that Spurs offered something different something special.
A Deep Connection, Despite No Silverware
Mourinho managed Tottenham from November 2019 to April 2021, a period that, on paper, may not appear as the highlight of his career. He was sacked just days before the 2021 Carabao Cup Final, a decision that many still question. Under his leadership, Spurs showed promise and reached that final, and at times looked like genuine contenders.
What Mourinho valued most, however, was the club’s culture, the connection with fans, and the infrastructure behind the scenes.
“Tottenham gave me something unique,” he said. “The training ground, the stadium, the people everything was set for success. I only wish I had been given more time. I believe we were on the verge of something very strong.”
A Subtle Dig at Past Clubs?
While Mourinho’s comment may come off as a simple declaration of preference, some see it as a subtle message to the other clubs he’s managed especially those that ended sourly. His time at Real Madrid was marked by tension with the dressing room, his return to Chelsea ended abruptly despite winning the league in 2015, and his stints at Manchester United and Roma ended with mixed feelings and internal issues.
“Sometimes success is measured only by trophies, but for me, it’s also about how a club lets you build, how much they trust your vision,” Mourinho explained. “At Spurs, I felt I could really create something. It felt like home.”
Unsurprisingly, Mourinho’s comments have sparked mixed reactions. Some Tottenham fans are flattered and nostalgic, viewing his words as validation of their club’s potential and stature. Others remain skeptical, questioning the sincerity of the statement given that no major trophies were won during his tenure.
On social media, Spurs supporters expressed a mixture of pride and bittersweet reflection.
“He saw what we see,” one fan posted. “We could’ve gone all the way with him if the board had backed him longer.”
Meanwhile, fans from other clubs, particularly Chelsea and Inter Milan, seemed baffled. “He called Tottenham the best? After what he did with us?” one Chelsea supporter wrote.
Whatever people may think of Mourinho’s time at Spurs, one thing is clear: he left a mark. His methods, personality, and unwavering belief in his teams always create headlines. This latest declaration adds yet another intriguing chapter to his complex legacy.
As of 2025, Mourinho is between jobs, with speculation constantly swirling about his next destination. But with this latest quote, he’s made it known that Tottenham Hotspur holds a special and perhaps unrivaled place in his heart.
Whether this is a nod to unfinished business or simply heartfelt admiration, only time will tell. But when José Mourinho speaks, the football world listens.
