Jose Mourinho has reignited his famous Chelsea legacy by branding himself the club’s “biggest manager” as he prepares to face the Blues in the UEFA Champions League with Benfica.
The Portuguese coach, who enjoyed two trophy-laden spells at Stamford Bridge, is back in west London on Tuesday night, aiming to cause an upset against his former club.
During his time at Chelsea, Mourinho won three Premier League titles, three League Cups, and an FA Cup, cementing his reputation as one of the most successful managers in English football history.
Back in 2017, when he returned to Stamford Bridge as Manchester United boss, Mourinho famously said that “‘Judas’ is No.1” until another Chelsea manager surpasses his record of three league titles. Ahead of this week’s clash, he doubled down on that claim.
“I’m the biggest one until someone wins four,” Mourinho insisted.
While Chelsea have experienced ups and downs in recent years, Mourinho highlighted how the club has remained a “winning machine” through different eras of managers and squads.
Despite preparing to go head-to-head with his old team, Mourinho expects a warm reception from the Chelsea faithful.
“On the street, they still stop me for pictures and autographs. Of course, I will always be a Blue. I am part of their history, and they are part of mine,” he added.
Speaking to the media from a suite at Stamford Bridge adorned with photos of his title-winning triumphs, Mourinho reflected on how his success helped shape Chelsea’s modern era:
“I helped them become a bigger Chelsea, and they helped me become a bigger Jose.”
As Mourinho leads Benfica into battle against Chelsea, he made it clear that nostalgia won’t get in the way of business:
“When I say I am not a Blue, I hope everyone understands that I am speaking about the job I have to do tomorrow.”
The stage is set for another dramatic night at Stamford Bridge, with Mourinho once again at the heart of the story.
