Jose Mourinho Linked With Al-Qadsiah Move

Portuguese superstar Jose Mourinho could make his way back into management for the first time since being sacked by AS Roma earlier this year. Following a poor run of results, the Roma-based club decided to move on, while several controversies also did not help his case.

In any case, Mourinho could be back in the managerial hot seat soon. Following his departure from the Italian capital, rumours have linked the ex-Chelsea coach with Saudi club Al-Shabab. The Portuguese, though open to a new project, deemed Al-Shabab’s offer not good enough but did not rule out the option to potentially manage a Saudi club. Fast forward five months and the next Saudi Club is knocking on his door.

Al-Qadsiah saw a change of management in 2023, as Saudi company Aramco took over, the same company that just signed a deal with FIFA. With ambitious projects in mind, Premier League legend Robbie Fowler was signed and later replaced with Real Madrid legend Michel. The ambitions are obvious: promotion to the Saudi Pro League. Al-Qadsiah are indeed first in their league, granting them promotion.

José Mourinho might be past his prime in Europe, but his past magic could work out abroad. A major critique of Saudi football is its lack of innovation – and for exactly that reason, ‘The Special One’ might become a success. His defending tactics often frustrate other teams, and in a league that still lags in the coaching world, Mourinho’s approach could be a game-changer.

It remains unclear how much funding Mourinho would be given. In the past, his stints have been marked by extravagant player requests. Aramco is far from broke, but it remains unclear how much the Saudi company would be willing to give to the Portuguese, who would likely request a squad overhaul.