Closer to home, Nottingham Forest have found themselves unexpectedly linked with Mourinho amid reports of growing tension between boss Nuno Espirito Santo and owner Evangelos Marinakis. With the relationship reportedly strained, Mourinho’s name has been tossed into the rumour mill as a potential replacement. While the prospect of Marinakis and Mourinho working together is pure drama fodder, Gallas is unconvinced.
"I definitely want to see Jose Mourinho back in the Premier League," he said. "I think I’m one of millions who wants to see him, not just back in the Premier League, but lifting that league title one more time. I still want to see him be champion of Europe one more time.
"We know that the press will want him back, too. Every time there’s a job opening in the Premier League, they’re going to link him with it. With his personality, everyone will want him back in the Premier League. But it can’t just be any club in the league, it has to be one that can match his ambition."
Turning specifically to the Forest chatter, Gallas was dismissive.
"Nottingham Forest, I don’t see them convincing him to join them," he said. "Can you imagine Evangelos Marinakis and Jose Mourinho, what a combination! That would definitely have some sort of drama involved. I don’t think Forest, the owner or Mourinho need that right now."