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The 5 top coaches and managers to learn from José Mourinho

The 5 top coaches and managers to work José Mourinho
The 5 top coaches and managers to work José Mourinho

José Mourinho, 61, was a former protégé himself. The special one learned his trade working as a translator for Sir Bobby Robson when he was the manager of Sporting CP, FC Porto and then FC Barcelona 1996.

At Barcelona, Sir Bobby Robson decided to appoint Mourinho as one of his assistants, noticing how much the young Portuguese had absorbed from his time studying under the English manager.

Mourinho later developed his own tactical genius and charismatic leadership style, going on to become one of the most influential managers of the past couple of decades.

But Mourinho himself has mentored several successful managers, disciples who would go on to achieve their own successes as managers.

José Mourinho's protégés have achieved significant success in various leagues and competitions worldwide. We bring to you the top managers who have learned from Mourinho, detailing their tenure together and subsequent achievements.

Brendan Rodgers

Former Liverpool manager and current Celtic manager, Brendan Rodgers, was a youth coach under José Mourinho at Chelsea between 2004-2008. Rodgers coached various youth teams in Mourinho's style, and would often be seen having conversations with 'the special one' at Chelsea's Cobham training ground.

How did Mourinho influence Brendan Rodgers?
During his time at Chelsea, Rodgers was exposed to Mourinho’s meticulous training methods and his ability to build strong, winning teams. Mourinho’s management style, tactics and coaching philosophies left a lasting impression on Rodgers, who would go on to become one of the best Northern Irish managers of all time.

Successes as a Manager:

  • Swansea City: Promotion to Premier League (2010-2011).
  • Celtic: Scottish Premiership titles (2016-2019, 2023-2024), Scottish Cups (2016-2018), Scottish League Cups (2016-2018).
  • Leicester City: FA Cup (2020-2021).

Nuno Espírito Santo

Nuno Espírito Santo played under José Mourinho at Porto between 2002 & 2004, and was part of FC Porto's famous Champions League winning squad.

How Did Mourinho Influence Him?
Nuno, as he is more commonly known amongst FC Porto fans, was a backup goalkeeper for José Mourinho, and reportedly would observe how Mourinho would act during games, as well as trying to overhear tactical speaks. Mourinho’s emphasis on team cohesion and strategic flexibility left a mark on Nuno who has tried to continue his mentor's style with his highly-disciplined and defensively organised teams.

Successes as a Manager:

  • Wolverhampton Wanderers: Promotion to Premier League (2017-2018), UEFA Europa League quarter-finals (2019-2020).
  • Tactical Approach: Nuno’s adaptability and defensive strength reflect Mourinho’s teachings.

André Villas-Boas

André Villas-Boas worked as an assistant to José Mourinho at Porto (2002-2004), Chelsea (2004-2007), and Inter Milan (2009-2010).

How Did Mourinho Influence Him?
André Villas-Boas started as a scout after being appointed at age 16 by Sir Bobby Robson. Villas-Boas would then go on to be a scout, analyst and then assistant coach under Mourinho, gaining deep insights into tactical analysis and game preparation. Mourinho’s detailed approach to match strategy and player management profoundly influenced Villas-Boas’ own methods and tactical style.

Successes as a Manager:

  • Porto: Primeira Liga title (2010-2011), UEFA Europa League (2010-2011), Portuguese Cup (2010-2011).
  • Zenit Saint Petersburg: Russian Premier League (2014-2015), Russian Cup (2015-2016).
  • Tactical Approach: Villas-Boas’s focus on tactical discipline and detailed game plans mirrors Mourinho’s influence.

Aitor Karanka

When Did They Work Together?

  • Assistant to Mourinho: Real Madrid (2010-2013)

How Did Mourinho Influence Him?
Karanka served as Mourinho’s assistant at Real Madrid, where he was deeply involved in tactical planning and player management. Mourinho’s defensive organisation and counter-attacking style greatly influenced Karanka’s approach.

Successes as a Manager:

  • Middlesbrough: Promotion to Premier League (2015-2016).
  • Nottingham Forest: Stabilised the team in the Championship.
  • Tactical Approach: Karanka’s focus on strong defensive foundations and organised play reflects Mourinho’s principles.

Steve Clarke

Scotland manager Steve Clarke worked under José Mourinho as his assistant manager at Chelsea between 2004-2008. Steve Clarke and Mourinho were an impressive team, with the Portuguese praising Clarke for his tactical mind and ability to motivate the Chelsea players.

How Did Mourinho Influence Him?
Clarke worked as Mourinho’s assistant during a successful period at Chelsea, absorbing Mourinho’s defensive solidity and man-management techniques. Mourinho’s ability to handle high-pressure situations influenced Clarke’s own managerial style.

Successes as a Manager:

  • West Bromwich Albion: Led the team to an 8th-place Premier League finish (2012-2013).
  • Kilmarnock: Scottish Premiership Manager of the Year (2018-2019).
  • Scotland National Team: Qualification for UEFA Euro 2020 & UEFA EURO 2024.
  • Tactical Approach: Clarke’s strong defensive organisation and motivational skills are reminiscent of Mourinho’s influence.

The managerial achievements of José Mourinho's proteges highlight the significant impact he has had on modern football. These managers, influenced by Mourinho's tactical brilliance and leadership qualities, have gone on to establish themselves as successful leaders in the footballing world. Mourinho’s legacy as a mentor continues to shine through the accomplishments of his former players and assistants, contributing to the ongoing evolution of football management globally.

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