Mourinho and pleasures delayed

For those who like their pleasure delayed, there is something wholesome in the wider awakening to the traits and abilities of Jose Mourinho.  The Portuguese inherited a squad at Porto in 2002 that would achieve great things there and elsewhere, notably against Celtic in Seville a year later, then against Monaco in 2004, but Mourinho’s principle contribution to results was his indulgence in the game’s dark arts.

Later in his career he would achieve while out-spending competitors, or by ‘parking the bus’ while still outspending most.  His temperament has always had a question mark over it.  Never has he won a league after his second at a club, by then, the impression of brilliance has always unravelled.

He made a barbed comment aimed broadly in the direction of Brendan Rodgers last week, although the Celtic manager was not mentioned, before picking on his own squad this week.  All will serve to divert attention from the fact that his spending is eye-watering and comparable to anywhere, but he will never get close to Manchester City.