'I feel sorry for him' - Jose Mourinho 'didn't expect' Roma sacking as Javier Zanetti reveals how former Inter manager is coping with unemployment

The Inter vice president has fond memories of Mourinho from his playing days. The Portuguese forged a close bond with the former Italy international during his time with the Nerazzurri as the duo went on to win the treble in 2009-10, beating Pep Guardiola's formidable Barcelona en route to the Champions League.

However, Mourinho's second coming in Italy did not go as planned. Although he led Roma to Europa Conference League glory, a poor start to the 2023-24 season saw him get fired from the capital club after spending two-and-a-half seasons at Stadio Olimpico.

When Zanetti was asked how Mourinho is dealing with this phase away from the pitch, Zanetti told DAZN: "Now he’s calm. I feel sorry for him because I know how much he cares for his teams. He didn’t expect to be sent away like this… De Rossi is doing a great job anyway.”

Mourinho is reportedly eager for a return to Manchester United to succeed Erik ten Hag. However, it is unlikely that INEOS would welcome him back at Old Trafford as they have already drawn up a potential shortlist, which includes current Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel.

Mourinho might return to management in the summer, but far from European shores as Saudi second-tier club Al-Qadsiah are believed to be interested in his services. The Saudi side are on the verge of securing promotion to the top flight and they would like to see the Portuguese leading an ambitious project.