Mourinho: ‘Roma don’t have the same economic potential as our rivals’

Jose Mourinho highlighted how Roma exceeded the expectations of many last season and underlined his desire for more this year.

The Portuguese coach guided the Giallorossi to their first ever European title last campaign, winning the first iteration of the Europa Conference League after beating Feyenoord 1-0 in the final. Roma had a good summer transfer window, picking up players like Paulo Dybala, Georginio Wijnaldum and Nemanja Matic, and they’re keen to fight for a top four finish this season.

Speaking at the Quinas de Ouro event, Mourinho first discussed last year’s work and his goals for this campaign.

“Last season we did what no one expected, this year we’ll try to do better. We don’t have the same economic potential as our rivals. 

“We had a €7m transfer market, but we have quality, passion, many people who like to work together, which is an important thing, and then at the end of the season we will see.”

He also underlined his consistent hunger and desire to continue working at the top for years to come.

“These 22 years have passed quickly, but I want to continue. I feel good, I feel strong, motivated, I like winning, I hate losing, nothing has changed. 

“The colour of my hair, yes, even the wrinkles, but I want to go on. Not for another 22 years, as there is no time, but for a few more years.”

Roma have had a decent start to the season and sit 6th in the Serie A table after the opening seven games, picking up 13 points from four wins and a draw. Things have been a little more rough in the Europa League, with the team losing their opener to Ludogorets 2-1 but winning at home against Finnish outfit HJK 3-0.