Mourinho Returns to Rome: Gasperini's Witty Jab and Champions League Clash

Jose Mourinho returns to the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, the stadium where he coached for nearly three years between 2021 and 2024, this time as the manager of Real Madrid, who will face the Giallorossi in the second round of the Champions League group stage on Wednesday at 22:00.

Ahead of the clash, the Italian media was particularly interested in hearing the thoughts of Gian Piero Gasperini, Roma's current manager, regarding the Portuguese coach's emotional homecoming.

At the pre-match press conference, Gasperini was asked what he would like to take from Mourinho as a manager, and he responded with a witty jab: "His ability to connect with the owners and convince them to buy amazing stars for him." According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian coach smiled as he made the remarks.

Alongside the lighthearted dig, Gasperini praised "The Special One" and made it clear that he expects a warm welcome from the Roma supporters. "The fans will applaud him, there was a great love for Mourinho and he deserves all the appreciation they will give him. We are talking about one of the most successful coaches of all time. However, I am convinced that once the match starts, everyone will focus solely on cheering for Roma."