The Roma boss conceded victory to Paulo Dybala following the Europa League semi-final clash.
Jose Mourinho spoke to Sky after Roma defeated Feyenoord in a match decided in extra time. The 4-1 result, achieved by the Giallorossi, sets up a continental semi-final against Bayer Leverkusen for the capital club.
“The team performed exceptionally. It was a game that demanded smart play and careful management. Dybala’s fitness concerns and Georginio Wijnaldum’s injury added to the challenge. Yet with tactical intelligence and courage, the side produced a strong performance against a highly capable opponent. We were the better side on the night.”
Responding to Sky’s reporters, Mourinho offered a wry, measured remark amid the channel’s ongoing conversations with him and a well-known adversary
“We have a studio full of people,” the studio noted, to which the coach replied, “Isn’t Cassano there?”—a reference that harks back to the frequent sparring between the two figures.
The Portuguese manager then highlighted Paulo Dybala’s contribution, praising the Argentine forward for the last-gasp strike that pushed Roma into extra time and broke the psychological barrier that had haunted the team in knockout ties.
“He showed his quality again here. In his final year with Juventus he seemed to be chasing joy more than confidence. Here, he has rediscovered both. He has found a supportive group, a coach who understands him, and an atmosphere that genuinely embraces him.”
According to Mourinho, the Roman surroundings have helped reignite player 21’s best attributes.
“There is obvious talent for performing at one of the world’s strongest clubs, and if the people in charge think so too, then that belief is well-placed. Perhaps what he has found here is a space filled with joy and affection, a place where that love translates into performances on the field.”
Source: Goal