José Mourinho arrived at Roma with high hopes and a big reputation. He left with a series of bans, defeats, and controversies.
Roma sacked the outspoken coach on Tuesday, just two days after a 3-1 loss at AC Milan dropped them to ninth place in Serie A. They also lost to their city rivals Lazio in an Italian Cup derby last week.
Mourinho had a contract until June, but he could not complete his third season at the club.
He had some success in his first season, leading Roma to the UEFA Conference League title – their first European trophy in over 60 years. He also took them to the Europa League final last season.
But he also clashed with referees, officials, and his own owners. UEFA banned him from four European games for verbally abusing the Europa League final referee in a stadium garage after Roma lost to Sevilla.
He also missed the game at Milan on Sunday due to protests.
“AS Roma can confirm that José Mourinho and his coaching staff will leave the club with immediate effect,” the club said in a statement.
“José, we thank you for your passion and efforts since your arrival at the club,” said owners Dan and Ryan Friedkin.
“We have great memories of your tenure at Roma, but we believe that an immediate change is in the best interests of the club.”
Roma said they will announce updates on the coaching staff soon.
Former Roma captain Daniele De Rossi is a possible caretaker, while reports say the owners are trying to hire Antonio Conte for next season.
Mourinho, 60, said last month he wanted to extend his contract at Roma. He may now look for a club in Saudi Arabia or a national team job.
He is one of the most successful coaches in history, with five European titles. He won the 2003 UEFA Cup and 2004 Champions League with Porto; the 2010 Champions League with Inter Milan; and the 2017 Europa League with Manchester United. He is the first manager to lead four different clubs to European titles.
He also won domestic trophies with Chelsea and Real Madrid.
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But his defensive style is hard to watch and his expensive contract was a problem for Roma’s finances.
He did attract some star players like Paulo Dybala and Romelu Lukaku to join the Giallorossi. He also filled the Stadio Olimpico with fans who loved his personality.
But in the end, he could not deliver the results or the stability that Roma needed.
