Sunday, April 30, 2006

Mourinho lifts second title: I almost quit Chelsea

After lifting back-to-back championships, Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho revealed after yesterday's 3-0 win over Manchester United that he seriously considered quitting this season.
But he assured Blues fans that he is over that emotion and promised to stay with the champions.
After a thumping win over closest rivals Manchester United, the Blues boss wants to win a Premiership hat-trick.
Mourinho said: "A couple of times during the season, I thought about closing the door and saying goodbye.


"But don't interpret this as a doubt for next season.
"I am happy to stay because this is a special club with special people.
"Unless the club sacks me, I will be manager here next season. I am not worried about that. I want to stay. I am ready to stay."
But Mourinho fears his achievements will always be tarnished because of the billions of pounds at his disposal from owner Roman Abramovich.
Mourinho said: "For a manager it is the worst club you can work at.
"For example I won nine consecutive matches this season and I was never manager of the month. Not one single time.
"I have been here for two years, we are champions and I have won manager of the months two times in two years. That's just a simple example.
"You do what you can but you are never recognised.
"Chelsea are always treated in a negative way."
Mourinho tied a Portugal scarf around his neck before launching into his after-match celebrations.
Skipper John Terry lifted the trophy and players received their medals but Mourinho gave his medal away.
He threw it into the Matthew Harding Lower Stand along with his jacket and, when he was given a second medal, he threw that one in as well.
Mourinho said: "I have a Premiership medal from last season and it's the same medal. I only need one. I can't keep everything I have.
"The crowd behind that goal are our best supporters. They always support us the most during the game.
"We have an incredible record at home, with just a single draw and they have played a big part in that.
"The medal was for everybody but the person who has the medal is lucky. He has a great souvenir unless he puts it on eBay and makes a fortune."