José Mourinho, one of the most accomplished managers in football history, recently revealed the ten players he enjoyed coaching the most. He shared this insight during an episode of Rio Ferdinand Presents, a podcast hosted by former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand. Throughout his career, Mourinho has managed some of the greatest players in football across several top clubs, winning trophies and instilling his tactical philosophy. His list of favorites includes a blend of world-class talent, leadership, and work ethic.
Manchester United (2016-2018)
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Mourinho took charge of Manchester United in 2016, tasked with restoring the club to its former glory. Although his tenure was met with mixed results, he delivered three trophies in his first season—the Europa League, EFL Cup, and Community Shield. Despite his departure in 2018, Mourinho built strong relationships with several players and had a significant impact on their careers.
Scott McTominay
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Mourinho promoted McTominay from the academy, recognizing his discipline and tactical intelligence. Though not the most technically gifted, McTominay’s hard work and dedication earned him Mourinho’s trust. The manager even created a personal award to honor McTominay, highlighting his professionalism and attitude.
Mourinho was instrumental in bringing Pogba back to Manchester United in 2016 for a then-world-record transfer fee. Their relationship was complex, marked by moments of brilliance on the pitch but also reported disagreements off it. Despite this, Pogba played a key role in United’s Europa League and EFL Cup triumphs in 2017, delivering decisive performances when it mattered most.
Although Mourinho did not coach Varane at United, he was the one who brought him to Real Madrid as a promising young defender. Mourinho saw Varane’s immense potential and helped him develop into an elite center-back. While Mourinho wanted to sign Varane for United, the Frenchman only arrived after his departure, but the respect between them was already well established.
Zlatan Ibrahimović
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Ibrahimović’s arrival at United in 2016 was a key move by Mourinho. The Swedish striker brought experience and a winning mentality, proving crucial in United’s Europa League and EFL Cup victories. Having worked together at Inter Milan, Mourinho and Zlatan shared a strong mutual respect, with the striker describing Mourinho as one of the best managers he ever played for.
Real Madrid (2010-2013)
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Mourinho’s tenure at Real Madrid was intense, as he took on the challenge of dethroning Pep Guardiola’s dominant Barcelona. He led Madrid to a record-breaking La Liga title in 2011-12, setting a new points record while also winning the Copa del Rey and Supercopa de España. His time at the club saw some friction, but he developed several key players into world-class stars.
Cristiano Ronaldo
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Ronaldo was the driving force of Mourinho’s Madrid team, delivering incredible goal-scoring performances. Under Mourinho’s guidance, Ronaldo won La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de España, breaking multiple records along the way. Despite occasional tensions, Mourinho always recognized Ronaldo’s unmatched work ethic and ability to perform in decisive moments.
Benzema initially struggled under Mourinho, who publicly criticized his mentality. However, the French striker evolved under Mourinho’s coaching, becoming a more complete forward. Mourinho later acknowledged Benzema’s intelligence and adaptability, which helped shape his career as one of the best strikers of his generation.
Chelsea (2004-2007, 2013-2015)
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Mourinho’s two spells at Chelsea cemented his status as a Premier League legend. In his first stint, he guided the club to back-to-back league titles in 2005 and 2006, revolutionizing English football with his tactical setup. When he returned in 2013, he led Chelsea to another Premier League triumph in 2014-15, proving his ability to rebuild winning teams.
John Terry
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Terry was Mourinho’s defensive leader during his first and second spells at Chelsea. A strong, vocal captain, Terry embodied Mourinho’s defensive philosophy and leadership values. Mourinho has often described him as one of the best center-backs he has ever coached, praising his ability to organize the backline and perform in high-pressure situations.
Didier Drogba
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Mourinho personally pushed for Chelsea to sign Drogba in 2004, believing he would become one of the best strikers in the world. Drogba repaid that faith, leading Chelsea to multiple league titles and delivering in crucial moments, including cup finals. Mourinho has frequently praised Drogba’s mentality, work ethic, and ability to score in decisive matches.
Mourinho’s time at Inter Milan was historic, as he led the club to a historic treble in 2009-10, winning Serie A, Coppa Italia, and the UEFA Champions League. His tactical genius and strong bond with his players helped Inter dominate both domestically and in Europe.
Javier Zanetti
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Zanetti was the heart and soul of Mourinho’s Inter team, serving as captain and playing a crucial role in the treble-winning season. Known for his versatility and leadership, Zanetti was a manager’s dream, embodying professionalism on and off the pitch. Mourinho has described him as one of the most reliable players he ever worked with.
FC Porto (2002-2004)
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Mourinho’s rise to prominence began at Porto, where he won back-to-back Primeira Liga titles, as well as the UEFA Cup in 2003 and the Champions League in 2004. His Porto team was disciplined, tactically sharp, and full of leaders who executed his vision perfectly.
Jorge Costa
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As Porto’s captain, Jorge Costa was a tough and determined center-back who embodied Mourinho’s defensive philosophy. His leadership and commitment were key to Porto’s European success, helping the club punch above its weight in the Champions League. Mourinho has always spoken highly of Costa’s fighting spirit and ability to command a defense.
