Jorge Mendes ‘surprised’ by Mourinho’s sacking but Roma contract talks ‘never’ started

Jose Mourinho’s agent Jorge Mendes admits the Portuguese coach did not expect to be sacked by Roma and confirms he was never in talks over a new contract at the Stadio Olimpico.

Mourinho was fired by Roma this past Tuesday and replaced with club legend Daniele De Rossi.

“I was left surprised, I didn’t expect it,” Mourinho’s agent Jorge Mendes told La Gazzetta dello Sport.

“José was the first coach to win three trophies at Manchester United after the great Sir. Alex Ferguson, with a team that didn’t have the likes of Beckham and the other big players of the past,” he continued.

“He returned to Chelsea and won the Premier League. With Tottenham, he was sacked before playing in the Carabao Cup Final. With him, Roma won the Conference League after so many years. He is a winner.”

Roma fans have continued to back Mourinho over the last three days and most of them didn’t want the Special One to leave the club.

“Fans are always right, and they adore José, not only Roma fans but those of all clubs where he worked,” said Mendes.

“His conscience is clear. He knows he worked well even if Roma’s team was limited compared to Inter and Juventus.

“Ok, Roma sit 9th, but they are just five points below the fourth spot, and 18 games are remaining. He wanted to continue and was convinced to do well even if the situation was not easy.”

Mourinho’s Roma contract was due to expire in June and there had been mixed reports in Italy over a possible extension at the Stadio Olimpico. However, Mendes clarified that “there was never a negotiation” between his client and the Serie A side.

“Mourinho experienced a sad situation, which he didn’t want to love. He has won 26 titles and he will win more. I have no doubts about this. Football is an industry and he’s always brought the results.”

The Portuguese coach has been linked with several Newcastle United and a few Saudi sides, so which one will be his next destination?

“It’s too early to say now. He is a coach for top sides; he’s always worked for top sides,” said his agent.

“He is an excellent coach and he’s proved it everywhere he’s worked.

“Saudi clubs already called him months ago and made a crazy offer, but he decided to continue with Roma because he loved them.”

Roma finished sixth in both seasons under Mourinho. The 60-year-old won 68 of his 138 games in charge of the Giallorossi since his appointment in 2021.