One of the best managers in football history is thought to be Jose Mourinho. With stints at Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and other major teams, the self-described “Special One” has collaborated with some of the best players of his generation.
The Portuguese tactician is unwavering in his convictions and never hesitates to voice his thoughts on football-related issues. When he was asked to list the best players the beautiful game has ever seen, his response was bound to be frank.
Would any of the athletes he has collaborated with make it onto the select few he announced? Cristiano Ronaldo would be the most likely contender. Despite managing his countryman at Real Madrid, Mourinho left him off of the three-man list.
Jose Mourinho Snubbed Ronaldo For Messi
Two dearly departed icons also featured in his list
He chose a fantastic trio from South America instead. According to The Sun, the former Manchester United manager said in 2016:
“For me, the top three players in history are Messi, Pele and Maradona.”
Most people agree that Lionel Messi is the best player to ever step onto a football pitch. In these GOAT discussions, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is frequently seen as being in a class by himself, with players like Ronaldo, Pele, and Maradona at the forefront.
With his amazing technical skill and stunning dribbling flair, Maradona was practically the original Messi. Conversely, Pele is thought to be the third-highest scorer in football history, only surpassed by Messi and Ronaldo. The Brazilian is without a doubt the most talented player in his country and was clinical in front of goal.
One
Mourinho’s choices contradict those he made in 2013, three years earlier. The 61-year-old said, “He [Ronaldo] is the best,” while he was manager of Real Madrid. Yes, the best in the world. Most likely the greatest ever. I had a few encounters with Maradona. Pele was never seen by me. Cristiano, however, is incredible. This man is the greatest.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner would probably be disappointed to learn that his former employer does not consider him one of the game’s greatest greats, but it is unclear what made him change his mind in just three years.
xz
