Exclusive: Jose Mourinho Considered for Celtic Role as Summer Vacancy Looms

Jose Mourinho could emerge as a shock candidate for the managerial position at Celtic, which is scheduled to become vacant again this summer, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal. 

Although Ange Postecoglou, who led the Glaswegians to five major trophies during his previous spell at Parkhead is widely tipped to make a return, our sources have been told the Portuguese’s name has also been raised by at least one influential figure behind the scenes as a potential successor to Martin O’Neil. 

Former Leicester City chief O'Neil accepted the role on an interim basis following Wilfried Nancy’s disastrous spell in charge, but is scheduled to relinquish it at the end of the season. 

And, if Postecoglou decides against rejoining the 55-time Scottish champions, Mourinho is seen as someone with both the profile and personality to galvanise a club and support base which has become disconnected in recent months.

Mourinho, one of the greatest coaching talents of his generation having led Porto, Chelsea, Internazionale and Real Madrid, is currently in charge of Benfica after leaving Fenerbahce. 

But his time at the Estadio de Luiz is not going smoothly, with a group of hardcore fans recently descending upon the squad’s training base to protest at a perceived series of disappointing performances.

That has prompted speculation Mourinho and his paymasters will decide to mutually part company before this summer’s World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico. 

UK Return?

Given their stature and global following, plus the fact they are almost guaranteed to be competing in Europe on an annual basis, would make Celtic an appealing destination for Mourinho who still retains strong ties with the UK having also worked at Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.

Another attraction, which sources believe could prompt him to lower his salary demands and bring them into line with the Scot’s usual pay structure, is the opportunity to resurrect the fortunes of a club which, by its own usual high standards, has struggled badly so far this term, although O’Neil has been able to repair some of the damage caused by Nancy’s brief but chaotic tenure.