Jose Mourinho spoke about the “great potential” of Chelsea wonderkid Estevao Willian as his Benfica visited Stamford Bridge on Tuesday for a Champions League fixture.
The former Manchester United, Real Madrid and Blues boss also revealed the truth about his links to the Brazil national team coaching job, a role that Carlo Ancelotti accepted in the summer.
Mourinho was looking forward to his reunion with Chelsea, a club he managed in two stints, helping them win three Premier League titles.
On Wednesday, the Portuguese coach returned to west London for a Champions League fixture against the Blues, however, the reunion turned out to be sour for the 62-year-old as Richard Rios’ 18th-minute own goal handed Enzo Maresca’s side all three points.’
Mourinho praised Chelsea wonderkid ‘Messinho’
Speaking to TNT Sport, Mourinho said: “Estevao is a talent.
“People might think he would take a while to adapt due to his youth, immaturity, and the competition he faces at Chelsea, but he’s here, playing at a higher level, and is a player with great potential.”
Mourinho reveals truth about Brazil coaching role
Mourinho was linked with the Brazil national team coaching job, until they approached ex-Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti and the Italian accepted the offer after leaving the Spanish giants in the summer.
Speaking on the Brazil job, Mourinho said: “No, not directly, not even the CBF.
“You know, in these things there are always a lot of people who talk: agents, intermediaries, former players…
“So, yes, I was contacted, but I tend to be reserved about it. However, no one from the CBF (reached out to him).”
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The Blues approached the Champions League game on the back of a poor run of form that saw them winning only one game in their last five outings across all competitions.
However, with the win over Benfica, Enzo Maresca’s received a much-needed confidence boost ahead of facing Liverpool at home on Saturday.
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