Legend's Jab: «Mourinho's Trophy Drought is Even Worse Than Real Madrid's»

Jorge Valdano's criticisms of José Mourinho are hardly breaking news. However, the former Real Madrid player and club legend has once again taken a jab at the manager, with whom he had a public falling out during Mourinho's first stint as coach, while Valdano was sporting director.

The former Argentine international, who not only played for and served as sporting director but also managed the merengues (1994-1996), highlighted Mourinho's recent lack of titles as a significant risk for any potential hiring. He emphasized that the current landscape is vastly different from when the coach, still under contract with Benfica, first arrived at the club.

«Florentino believes Mourinho can boost the team's self-esteem. But it's crucial to note that neither Florentino, nor Mourinho, nor even football itself are the same as they were 15 years ago,» Valdano stated in an interview with influencer Rodrigo Rea.

«Mourinho won a Conference League five years ago [2021/22] and a Europa League ten years ago [2016/17]. Mourinho's trophy drought is even more pronounced than Real Madrid's. He's a gamble for Florentino, who has always admired him and wants to offer him a second chance,» Valdano added.