Jose Mourinho has backed Portugal as genuine World Cup contenders, insisting his home nation possesses a squad technically superior to the side that won Euro 2016. Speaking to Sport Week magazine, the Benfica manager declared: "Portugal are capable of anything. They possess an incredible generation of players."
Mourinho's confidence stems from the Seleção's recent success, which includes winning the Nations League just a year ago. While acknowledging the threat posed by Carlo Ancelotti's Brazil and Argentina, the Portuguese tactician believes his country has the quality to challenge for football's biggest prize. "This generation is technically better than that side," Mourinho stated, referencing the 2016 European Championship-winning team.
Politics and Sport Must Remain Separate
Mourinho also weighed in on the tournament's political complexities, particularly regarding Iran's participation. Despite calls for Iran's exclusion amid Middle East tensions, with some figures suggesting Italy as a replacement, Mourinho drew a clear distinction: "One thing is politics, another is sport. The Iranian players who have qualified for the World Cup deserve to play there."
Beyond World Cup analysis, Mourinho reflected on his illustrious managerial career. When asked to name football's most elegant player, he immediately cited Zinedine Zidane: "Watching Zizou play was pure beauty." He also praised his tactical foresight, recalling his prediction that Nicolo Zaniolo would score Roma's winner in the Conference League final against Feyenoord—a prophecy that proved accurate.
Real Madrid Return Speculation Intensifies
Reports suggest Mourinho is the frontrunner to return to Real Madrid, where he managed from 2010 to 2013. According to Sky Sports, the 61-year-old has made two non-negotiable demands: "full control" of operations and significant influence over transfer decisions. His potential comeback to the Bernabéu would mark a high-profile return to one of Europe's elite clubs, though negotiations remain ongoing as the managerial carousel continues to turn.
