It was thrilling to hear Jose Mourinho hint at the possibility of managing in Scotland someday.
I’d be delighted to see the Special One in Glasgow – but specifically at Rangers. Mourinho’s revelation that he’s a secret admirer of Scottish football has sparked excitement among fans on both sides of the Glasgow rivalry, with many dreaming of his potential arrival.
There’s no question that Mourinho is one of the greatest managers of all time. While some might argue that his influence is fading, recent performances have shown he’s still among the elite. He’s taken on some challenging roles lately, and his current position at Fenerbahce is no exception.
We’re all aware of how managers tend to fare in Turkey, and it’s likely his tenure there will follow a similar pattern. Controversy has followed him, so it wouldn’t be surprising if he’s considering a new opportunity in the near future. Could Scotland be his next destination?
As for Celtic, I’m not convinced. I haven’t forgotten Seville and the antics of his Porto players during the UEFA Cup Final. I’m sure many Celtic fans share that sentiment and haven’t forgiven him either. I know it still bothers figures like Martin O’Neill. That said, there would undoubtedly be some supporters who’d welcome him at Parkhead.
But here’s a question: Mourinho as the next manager – or a new contract for Brendan Rodgers? I know which one I’d choose. Mourinho would undoubtedly bring excitement, but it could also be a turbulent ride. Rodgers, on the other hand, has done an extraordinary job at Celtic.
He’s on track to complete another clean sweep this season, meaning he’d have only missed out on one trophy across his two spells. That’s an incredible achievement. Celtic’s success has been built on stability, and Rodgers embodies that.
And let’s not mistake stability for boredom. Rodgers has built teams that play exhilarating football, score loads of goals, and deliver trophies. Mourinho could do the same, but why disrupt what’s working so well at Parkhead? Rodgers has the system running smoothly, so there’s no need for change. I doubt he’ll leave before his contract ends next season.
But after that, it’s anyone’s guess. Only Rodgers knows what he’ll want to do at that point. If there’s any chance to extend his deal, Celtic should seize it. Still, I’d love to see Mourinho in Scotland – and that means at Rangers.
Rangers fans are optimistic about a billionaire takeover this summer, so why not dream big? Contrary to what some Rangers supporters might think, I’d like to see them get their act together. Let’s face it, the Premiership has become predictable this season.
Even the derbies lack significance. There’s no real jeopardy, the stakes are low, and the rewards are minimal beyond temporary bragging rights. Scottish football would benefit from Rangers becoming competitive again – and having someone like Mourinho at the helm would be fantastic.
Rangers fans could use some excitement after years of struggle. At times, I’ve genuinely felt sorry for them given their poor performances. Scottish football would certainly become more entertaining with Mourinho around. It would be must-see drama.
Mourinho may be older, but his appetite for challenges and his trademark mischief remain intact. I loved his subtle jab at Philippe Clement. The Belgian had the audacity to criticize Mourinho’s style, and you just knew the Portuguese couldn’t resist firing back, even if his target was no longer in the opposing dugout.
And that’s exactly what you’d get if he came to Scotland. It would be chaotic at times, with his unique brand of drama following him wherever he goes.
Just look at his disputes with referees in Turkey. Can you imagine how he’d handle Scottish officials? It would be worth watching. These are the kinds of personalities we need in Scottish football. We’ve seen it with Rodgers, Steven Gerrard, and others over the years.
Mourinho spoke fondly about Scottish football this week, and his presence would make it utterly unmissable. However, he’d face a tough task closing the gap on Celtic. The league title may be secured, but the focus now is on the Scottish Cup – and completing another Treble.
It’s become so routine at Celtic that the magnitude of achieving a Treble is often overlooked. Trebles aren’t easy – even if Celtic makes it seem that way.
This weekend’s quarter-final clash won’t be straightforward, though. Hibs will pose a serious challenge for Celtic. The transformation under David Gray has been remarkable, and they’ll fancy their chances on Sunday.
Hibs defeated Celtic at Easter Road earlier this season, and even in their loss at Parkhead, they created opportunities and were unlucky to lose 3-0. That victory in Leith might sharpen Celtic’s focus, though. They won’t take anything for granted, and Rodgers has had a full week to prepare.
Celtic have looked slightly fatigued in recent games, but that only highlights the strength of this team. Even when they’re not at their best, they still manage to get results. The fact that they weren’t at their peak against Aberdeen and St Mirren – yet still scored 10 goals – speaks volumes.
That’s the challenge for any team trying to stop them, but if anyone has a chance, it’s this Hibs side. This tie has all the ingredients of a classic, and maybe even Mourinho will be tuning in.