Former Inter president Massimo Moratti shared some backstories about José Mourinho during the unveiling of a book about the Special One (via Corriere dello Sport).
“His cycle with us had a beautiful ending, as we won the Champions League. There have been some episodes, especially at the beginning, that made me think he kept a certain type of attitude to prove he had precise traits. When I got to know him better, I found him to be funny, serious and professional. He directly asked for a player just once, as he wanted to sign Ricardo Quaresma at all costs. He eventually wore me out and we purchased him.”
The entrepreneur commented on the Portuguese gaffer joining Roma.
“I’m glad it happened, and there was no jealousy on my part. We talk often, and at least he didn’t go to Milan or Juventus. I think it’s the right place for him to fully express himself. In some ways, it’s as if he has gotten younger in the Italian capital. It’s like at the start of his career, where had to rebuild a team and couldn’t demand proven champions. It’s more difficult but potentially more gratifying.”
Moratti explained how things went down with Rafa Benitez after Mourinho left.
“He was the last person I would have hired because the two were at odds. The Spanish coach couldn’t accept that his colleague had won so much. He made me a strong first impression. He maybe made some mistakes with the players early on, but he was a good manager. We all got off to a poor start. I fired him in December and appointed Leonardo, who was great and recreated the right environment in a week.”
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