Revealed: Jose Mourinho was told to leave Roma immediately after impromptu 25-minute meeting with American owners - who had already called Daniele De Rossi to replace him

Languishing down in ninth in Serie A and on a dismal run of just one win from their last six league games - including damning defeats to rivals Lazio and AC Milan - Roma made the brutal decision to sack their Europa Conference League-winning manager after two and a half seasons. The call came as a surprise to some, including apparently Mourinho himself, as The Athletic reports it was made following an impromptu meeting that lasted just 25 minutes.

According to the report, the legendary Portuguese coach met with Roma's American owners, the Friedkin Group, who communicated to Mourinho that he would be leaving with immediate effect. The decision was so set in stone that club legend and World Cup-winner Daniele De Rossi had already reportedly been chosen as his replacement. Indeed, the club made the official announcement of the Italian's appointment later on Tuesday.

Mourinho’s Europa Conference League triumph in 2022 was Roma’s first trophy in 14 years, and their first in 60 years on the continental stage. The Portuguese tactician was unable to complete a memorable one-two of European trophies the following year, though, agonisingly losing a controversial final on penalties to Europa League specialists Sevilla.

The third season curse continues. The three-time Premier League winner is back looking for work, and has been tipped for a sensational return to struggling former club Chelsea. In previous months, Mourinho has also been rumoured for roles in international management.