The departure of Fernando Santos from the Portuguese national coaching command opened up a vacancy for the post of national coach. The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has referenced José Mourinho but, according to information gathered by JN, “Special One” would not be interested, for now, in taking over his duties.
The Portuguese coach has a contract with Roma until 2024 and is motivated to fulfill the contract, which will only expire at the end of the 2023/24 season, right at the start of the next European Championship. José Mourinho earns around €7m a year and, with a contract for another season and a half, a departure could result in a €10.5m payment if the FPF does not reach an agreement with the Italian club.
JN knows that the FPF is in no hurry to find the next manager, as Portugal will only compete again in March 2023, in qualifying matches for Euro 2024. José Mourinho’s door is more closed than open, which motivates officials federal to study alternatives. A strong name is that of Rui Jorge, the current Under 21 coach. Other options could go through a foreign trainer.
