Jose Mourinho humorously shared an anecdote about former Chelsea player Michael Essien, revealing that he had to ask Essien to refrain from calling him a particular name due to their similar ages.
The 61-year-old manager made this amusing disclosure while discussing the unwavering loyalty he has experienced from African players during his illustrious coaching tenure.
Mourinho mentored renowned African footballers such as Didier Drogba, Michael Essien, and John Obi Mikel during his tenures at Stamford Bridge, in addition to working with other players from the African continent across various European clubs.
Following his dismissal as Roma’s head coach in January after a challenging period, Mourinho is currently awaiting a compelling offer to return to top-tier football management.
Known for achieving success at almost every club he has led, except Tottenham, Mourinho has had the privilege of coaching some of the world’s top talents, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and Wayne Rooney.
However, the esteemed Portuguese coach disclosed his enduring reliance on African players throughout his career, sharing how players like Essien affectionately refer to him as ‘daddy’.
“I cannot go to Africa,” José Mourinho, Football.com Global ambassador, shared with FIVE, alluding to the overwhelming reception he receives when visiting the continent.
“It’s too much everywhere. You know, I had Didier Drogba from Ivory Coast, Geremi from Cameroon, Kalou from Ivory Coast, Obi Mikel from Nigeria, Essien from Ghana, I have players from all over the world.
“Every time I visit Africa, I am swarmed with affection. The players adore me. Even in Europe, where many African players are based, people hold me in high regard. Honestly, I have a deep affection for these players, and I believe African players exhibit remarkable loyalty and sincerity.
“Many of them affectionately call me daddy, and when Essien, who is almost my age, refers to me as daddy, I playfully respond, ‘Michael, come on, don’t call me daddy, we’re practically the same age,’” he quipped.
“This bond is genuine; I genuinely care for the players and appreciate their talents both on and off the field. I have always cherished working with African players.
“I believe I bring out the best in them. They see me as someone who truly values and respects them, both as players and individuals. I have always had a fantastic rapport with African players,” Mourinho concluded.
The entire interview will be accessible on FIVE’s YouTube channel. For the full interview with José Mourinho, tune in to @FIVEUK’s audio platforms on Spotify, Apple, and Google Podcasts.