African players are very loyal - Jose Mourinho

Jose Mourinho reacts after the Italian Serie A soccer match Bologna FC vs AS Roma at Renato Dall'Ara stadium in Bologna, Italy, 17 December 2023. EPA/ELISABETTA BARACCHI

by Thando Mpembe

Friday Feb 16, 2024. 19:50

African players are very loyal according to legendary Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho as he discussed his admiration for footballers from mother of mankind.

The 61-year-old tactician is one widely considered one of the most decorated managers ever and is regarded to be among the greatest managers of all time.

Mourinho has coached some of Africa’s greatest footballers including Didier Drogba, Mohamed Salah, Samuel Eto’o, and Michael Essien.

“I cannot go to Africa. Too much everywhere,” Mourinho said on FIVE presented by Rio Ferdinand https://www.youtube.com/@5magazine

“Because, you know, I had, you know Didier Drogba – Ivory Coast, Geremi [Njitap] – Cameroon, [Salomon] Kalou – Ivory Coast, [John] Obi Mikel – Nigeria, Essien – Ghana, I have guys all around the world.

“Every time I go to Africa I cannot walk. The guys love me. Even in Europe with many African guys people really love me. “To be honest I love the guys and I feel that the African player is very loyal and very pure.”

Mourinho, who has coached top European clubs such as Real Madrid, Manchester United, Inter Milan and Chelsea FC, is currently unattached after leaving AS Roma last month.