Fenerbahce head coach José Mourinho has hinted at a possible future role in Scottish football, acknowledging the passion and intensity that define the game in the country. While preparing for Fenerbahce’s Europa League last-16 clash with Rangers, Mourinho expressed admiration for both Rangers and Celtic, stating that managing in Scotland could be an option one day.
“In this moment, no, because I have a job that motivates me and demands loyalty,” Mourinho said. “But why not in the future? People can say the Scottish league is a league of two teams, but it is a league of passion. Passion in football is everything.”
Mourinho, who famously led Porto to victory over Celtic in the 2003 UEFA Cup final, has fond memories of his time in Scotland. In the 1990s, he completed coaching courses in Ayrshire, an experience he described as “fantastic” for both his professional and personal development.
The Portuguese coach also spoke highly of Rangers’ interim manager Barry Ferguson, suggesting that his emotional connection to the club could make his team more challenging to face than under previous coach Philippe Clement. “It will be much more difficult against him than the previous coach. The previous coach was more worried about philosophy. Ferguson will be more pragmatic.”
Mourinho also acknowledged his encounters with Rangers fans over the years, particularly in London and Portugal, where many still thank him for denying Celtic a European trophy in 2003. “I have lots of respect for both clubs,” he said. “They have big fan bases, incredible history, and big expectations.”
Though currently focused on Fenerbahce, Mourinho’s words suggest that a move to Scotland’s top clubs could be a possibility in the future, should the right opportunity arise.
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