Jose Mourinho has been in regular contact with key figures at Chelsea FC, fueling speculation that he could return to the club this summer.
The current Real Madrid manager serves as an unofficial advisor to Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich. He also maintains contact with remaining members of Chelsea’s “Old Guard,” according to the Daily Star.
“But the news that Abramovich has been seeking out Mourinho’s advice in texts and calls during the Blues’ troubled season is the strongest indication yet that the Portuguese coach will be back at Stamford Bridge this summer,” the report says.
Mourinho purchased a house near Stamford Bridge last year. The report adds that his teenage daughter is taking a course at the Camberwell College of Arts in London, which is also near the Chelsea stadium.
Mourinho managed Chelsea from 2004-07, winning two Premier League titles, one FA Cup and two League Cups. He sensationally left the club (by “mutual consent”) in September 2007 after falling out with Abramovich. The two have since mended their relationship and have reportedly warmed to the idea of working together in the future.
It is widely expected that Mourinho will leave Real Madrid at the end of this season. He has a poor relationship with club president Florentino Perez and several key players.
Chelsea’s managerial situation is in flux. Interim manager Rafa Benitez has stabilized on-field matters, but a vocal section of Chelsea’s fan base won’t accept his presence at the club. His contract expires at the end of the season, and it’s unlikely that Chelsea will retain his services.
Many Chelsea fans idolize Mourinho for the success he brought to the club. Older players like Frank Lampard, Ashley Cole, John Terry and Petr Cech hold him in the highest regard. They maintain tight bonds with the 50-year-old tactician, exchanging calls and texts on a frequent basis.
Abramovich has been criticized for his hands-on ownership and management style. Many feel that is why Pep Guardiola, who topped the Russian’s list of potential managers, chose Bayern Munich instead of Chelsea. Landing Mourinho would be much more than a consolation prize for Abramovich, many Chelsea players and many more of its fans.
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