Mourinho needs enemies to thrive — Oliseh

Former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh has backed Jose Mourinho to bring success back to Real Madrid but warned that the Portuguese manager’s well-documented tendency to self-destruct in his third year at clubs could cut his second stint at the Bernabeu short as he needs enemies to succeed, PidomNigeria Sports Extra reports.

Mourinho’s return to Real Madrid was confirmed after weeks of speculation, with the 62-year-old signing a three-year deal that will keep him at the club until June 2028. The appointment comes after a trophyless season for Los Blancos, their first since 2009/10, and amid widespread concern about discipline within the squad.

Oliseh said Mourinho’s track record gives Real Madrid every reason to believe silverware will follow, but pointed to a recurring pattern in his managerial career.

“Sadly, there’s the third-year burnout, like at Manchester United and Spurs. Mourinho needs external enemies to thrive, and when he has none, he looks inside,” Oliseh said.

The former Nigeria captain, however, was unambiguous about the qualities that make Mourinho one of the most effective managers in the game.

“Jose Mourinho is a mercenary. He doesn’t want your love; he wants your respect. He doesn’t build for the next decade; Jose builds for the next 90 minutes.

 “In 2010, against Barcelona, Mourinho had Samuel Eto’o, one of the greatest strikers in history, playing as a left-back. Eto’o’s defensive contribution disrupted Barcelona’s build-up play big time in critical phases. Jose convinced a superstar that defending was more important than scoring on that occasion. That is his power. His Chelsea side conceded 15 goals in a Premier League season. Mourinho’s teams are the masters of the dark arts,” Oliseh said.

Mourinho, who previously won the La Liga title with Real Madrid during his first spell at the club, is expected to begin work on July 1. He has also claimed trophies at Chelsea, Inter Milan and Manchester United during a decorated career.