Thursday 14 June 2018, UK: Jose Mourinho surprised a group of schoolchildren with a special lesson before departing for the World Cup.
Mourinho was a secondary school PE teacher for five years before embarking on his record-breaking football management career. He arrived at Bishop Gilpin Church of England Primary School in a Jaguar XF Sportbrake full of brand new football equipment, which he donated to the children as part of an inspiring afternoon in class.
“Inside me there is always a teacher. Coming back to school as a kid; or a teacher brings back a lot of special memories. You create your own identity; and develop your own personality and principles. It is the period you most enjoy in life.”
Mourinho was confronted by a star-struck group of children, who interrogated him about his favourite school memories, Father’s Day; and the naughtiest players he works with. One cheeky pupil even asked the football manager to make a sponsorship donation for his school marathon.
“My life is full of memories with my father – his name was also Jose – and being a father is the best job. Even if my job doesn’t allow me to see my children every day, on Father’s Day; we’ll have a special lunch or dinner if we can,” added Mourinho ahead of Father’s Day in the UK on Sunday.
Speaking before he departs for a week in Russia, Mourinho was optimistic about England’s chances.
“England have a good group of young, experienced players. All of them play in the best domestic competition in the world; and have experience of playing in the Champions League. So yes, I think they can do it.”
Mourinho was coy about the chances of pre-tournament favourites- France, Brazil, Germany and Argentina– but he emphasised the importance of teams as well as great individuals.
“They have good squads but good squads do not always make good teams. Sometimes not so special squads, in theory, can make better teams. For example, Portugal in the Euros had far from the best squad but they did it.”
Mourinho was part of the launch of the Jaguar XF Sportbrake in 2017 when he helped with Andy Murray’s first-ever replica Wimbledon trophy tour.
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