Jose Mourinho: 'I am still Chelsea's number one'

Coach Jose Mourinho insists he is still the “number one” in Chelsea’s history as he prepares for a heartfelt reunion with his old team in the Champions League.

Jose Mourinho will make an emotional return to Stamford Bridge when Benfica faces Chelsea in the Champions League. Before the match, the Portuguese manager confirmed he remains the “top figure” in The Blues’ history.

During his career, Mourinho managed Chelsea in two periods, from 2004 to 2007 and 2013 to 2015. He secured 3 Premier League titles, 3 League Cups, and 1 FA Cup for the London club, ushering in a glorious era that elevated Chelsea to a major European power.

In 2017, while managing Manchester United, Mourinho attracted attention with his statement: “Judas remains number one until another coach wins more than 3 Premier League titles with Chelsea.” Now, at 62 years old, he reiterates: “I will remain number one until someone wins 4 titles.”

Although about to face his former club, Mourinho says he is not worried about Chelsea fans turning against him. “I don’t think I will be booed. At least on the streets, they still stop me for autographs and photos,” he shared.

The pre-match press conference was held in a VIP room at Stamford Bridge, where photos of Mourinho celebrating his 3 Premier League titles still hang. “Not many clubs preserve their history visually. But at Chelsea, I always feel part of it. I helped them become a stronger Chelsea, and they helped me become a greater Jose Mourinho,” he added.

Nevertheless, Mourinho also emphasized his professionalism: “Tomorrow, I am no longer a ‘Blue’. I am Benfica’s coach and I have a job to do.”

The match between Chelsea and Benfica will take place early morning on October 2nd (Vietnam time). This is not only an important Champions League clash but also a special return for Mourinho, who once wrote golden chapters at Stamford Bridge.