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's Chelsea union ended in a loss
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.
AdvertisementGettyMourinho praised Chelsea wonderkid 'Messinho'
Speaking to , 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)."
AFPChelsea gain confidence ahead of crucial Premier League game
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.