Jose Mourinho was at the Emirates to watch the Europa league encounter between Arsenal and Vitoria and no doubt like the rest of us was wondering how Arsenal managed to wriggle out of certain defeat.
His appearance left many speculating that he was checking out his new place of employment but Unai Emery’s in a pretty safe place at present despite his sometimes odd approach and ghastly man management.
Much more likely was Mourinho’s desire to support the Portuguese side Vitoria and to cast an eye over Arsenal’s Pepe who he recently enthused about in the media. He picked a good night if that was the case because Pepe turned the game on its head with two exquisitely taken free kicks.
Jose Mourinho said in September:
“Last season after I left United, I went a few times to Lille because my friend is the coach there [Christophe Galtier] so I know quite a lot about his qualities.”
He went on:
“He does that very well. When he has the ball and also without the ball, he is very effective and very direct.”
“If they are to play three in midfield with him, Alexandre Lacazette and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at the front, looking to the movements, I think they can make it a real force.”
Before adding:
“He’s very cool in front of the keeper and I think this boy has fantastic potential.”
So, Mourinho is casting an eye over another Arsenal player for the day he takes his next high profile appointment.
The trouble is there are only so many big clubs that could afford the ‘Special One’ and that can cater for his ego.
ALSO READ: Emery Needs to Play to his Strength for Arsenal to Qualify for the UCL Next Season and This is how
The majority of Arsenal fans that I’ve spoken to personally or that I’ve come across on social media, don’t want Jose Mourinho at Arsenal. He’s a winner no doubt, but his tactics tend to stifle creative football and in his last few appointments, he’s delivered silverware by removing the entertainment.
As much as supporters recognise Mourinho’s achievements, they seem reluctant to see him in the home dugout. I think everyone should relax, Mourinho’s not coming but he may well be looking to prize a player or two away from their North London home.
