Khabib Nurmagomedov Comments on Jose Mourinho Ahead of Roma’s European Ambitions
Former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov shared a notable compliment for Jose Mourinho, the long-time manager of AS Roma. The exchange came after Roma’s Europa League final appearance, a match remembered for its dramatic 1-1 score after regular and extra time, before Sevilla prevailed 4-1 in the ensuing penalty shootout.
In a social media post featuring a young Mourinho, Khabib simply described him as special, a remark that underscored the high regard many in the world of football hold for the charismatic Portuguese coach.
Mourinho has been at the helm of Roma since the summer of 2021, with a contract that has seen him lead the club through a period of pressure, expectation, and notable matches. At 60 years old, Mourinho remains one of footballs most decorated coaches, a figure whose career spans multiple top European competitions. He has claimed major honours across clubs in the Champions League, the UEFA Cup era, and more recently in the Europa League and Conference League formats, illustrating a track record that few managers can rival.
Meanwhile, comments from other football minds have speculated about Mourinho’s path following Roma’s European campaign. A former Russian coach, Igor Shalimov, offered a candid view on the final and on Mourinho’s standing with the Roma squad. Shalimov suggested that Mourinho delivered a clear message to his players after the defeat, signaling a possible continuation with the club in the near term, while noting the intense focus on every aspect of the match, including officiating and disciplinary actions on the field. Shalimov’s reflections highlighted a match where Suso stood out for Roma, and where the match official drew attention for issuing a high number of yellow cards yet avoiding any red cards—an outcome that sparked debate among observers around the officiating and the tempo of the final.
Roma’s approach under Mourinho has often been praised for its tactical organization and resilience, traits that supporters say define the club’s identity in European competition. The manager’s global reputation—built through successes in multiple leagues and in European cups—continues to fuel discussions about Roma’s strategy, recruitment, and long-term ambitions. In any review of the club’s season, Mourinho’s influence is a constant focal point, shaping expectations for how the team competes in upcoming campaigns, and how international observers perceive Roma’s progress within one of world football’s most demanding landscapes.
As Roma looks toward future assignments, the connection between Mourinho’s leadership and the club’s evolving squad remains a central storyline for fans, analysts, and players alike. The cross-border dialogue around Mourinho’s methods, his player relationships, and the club’s resilience will likely endure as the team prepares for new challenges on both domestic and continental fronts. The 2021-2024 window was marked by high-stakes decisions, enduring pressure, and moments that underscored Mourinho’s enduring relevance in European football, a narrative that continues to unfold as Roma advances in seasons ahead.