Following Roma’s 2-1 victory over relegation strugglers Spezia in their final game of the season, Jose Mourinho appeared to convey his intention to stay at the club through a gesture to the fans.
The renowned coach’s unexpected arrival at Roma in 2021 came with a three-year contract, and he quickly won over the Giallorossi supporters by securing the Europa Conference League title in his debut season.
In his second season, Mourinho guided the team to their second European final, the Europa League, although they suffered a controversial penalty shootout defeat of 4-1.
Speculation surrounds Mourinho’s future at the club, as several top clubs have managerial vacancies, while Roma’s lack of significant investment in the squad, under the watchful eye of Financial Fair Play (FFP) regulations, adds further uncertainty. Nonetheless, Mourinho’s gesture hints at a potential continuation of his coaching journey with Roma.
Mourinho’s telling reaction to fans
Roma put the disappointment of the Europa League final loss aside, and will re-enter the competition next season after finishing sixth in the Serie A table.
According to Eurosport, Paulo Dybala scored a late equaliser from the spot to help Roma finish sixth and send his former club Juventus to the Europa Conference League next season.
As seen in a video shared on Twitter by La Roma 24, Mourinho was walking off the pitch when fans quizzed him about his future. His reaction suggested he would stay, after he pointed to the ground and waved back.
The former Chelsea boss revealed after the Europa League final that he will proceed on holiday today and hold talks with the club later.
He also revealed that Portugal’s national team approached him before they hired Roberto Martinez.
Mourinho risks lengthy ban
Sports Brief reported that Jose Mourinho risked lengthy ban after he ambushed English referee Anthony Taylor in the parking lot after the Europa League final.
Jose Mourinho to Anthony Taylor: “You’re a f**king disgrace!!!” 😳
— Sports Gist (@theSportsGist) June 1, 2023
(📷 via @tvdellosport)#SportsGist #unitedshowbiz Peter Drury | Mohammed Kudus | FIFA | Teshie | Vodafone | Anthony Taylor | #UELfinal pic.twitter.com/LYTP3nXVI3
Taylor had a poor outing, and Mourinho clarified his feelings by screaming explicit words at him. This could earn him a lengthy ban after an investigation by UEFA.