Could Mourinho return to Stamford Bridge once more?

The summer is always a turbulent time for Chelsea, due to their frequent activity in the transfer window and seemingly yearly managerial merry-go-round. It’s set to be no different this year, with former manager Jose Mourinho heavily linked with a return to the hot seat.

Sarri set to depart

Manager Maurizio Sarri looks set to return to his native Italy after just one year in south west London. The 60-year-old enjoyed an impressive debut season in England, successfully guiding Chelsea to a third place finish and a Europa League triumph in Baku, where they embarrassed rivals Arsenal in a 4-1 victory. This sees the Blues return to the Champions League for the 19/20 season, after a season out.

However, it wasn’t always an easy ride for Sarri throughout the campaign, with fans often displeased with his team selection, style of football and treatment of certain young players often coming under the spotlight for criticism. The Italian looks set to take over the reigns at Juventus, following Massimiliano Allegri’s recent departure. But who would be right to guide Chelsea to a hopeful title challenge next season?

Is Mourinho the answer?

Rumours have been rife that Frank Lampard will step in following a very impressive debut season in management with Derby Count. Yet his lack of experience in the ‘big leagues’ could see Chelsea wait for that particular poetic appointment, so that they can ensure he is absolutely ready for such a large job.

Step up Jose Mourinho. The 56-year-old has been out of work since being sacked from the Manchester United job in December 2018. Mourinho has already enjoyed two successful stints at Stamford Bridge, guiding Chelsea to multiple league and domestic cup triumphs but has since found himself enduring a slightly toxic relationship with Chelsea fans, due to various comments made during his time as United manager.

Mourinho, who has also been linked with the Newcastle United job, could offer Chelsea the perfect short term management solution. He knows the club inside out, and given Chelsea’s impending transfer ban, would be able to utilise whatever players he has at his disposal to maximum effect, as he so often has done at his previous clubs. Young talents like Mason Mount and Reece James could be given the opportunity to shine and make a claim for a regular starting position at Stamford Bridge.

It remains to be seen whether Chelsea would look to secure the services of Mourinho, given their rocky relationship in the past, however the Portuguese could provide the perfect short term fix for their managerial position, until a dream move for Lampard can become realistic. He is a natural winner, and has the experience and tactical knowledge to guide Chelsea to a successful season.

Featured Image Credit: “José Mourinho / Жозе Моуринь” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Aleksandr Osipov