Talented manager Jose Mourinho is tempted by the prospect of managing Paris Saint-Germain, despite Real Madrid waiting in the wings. The former Manchester United manager will look to return to work in the summer and has been convinced for some time that a job is waiting for him at the Bernabeu. But even with the potential of second spell at Real, he has indicated to people who worked closely with him that PSG and a move to France appeals.
Ironically, United may have paved the way to him succeeding Thomas Tuchel by inflicting a humbling Champions League defeat on the French giants. PSG became the first side in the competition’s history to squander a 2-0 first-leg win away from home. United’s 3-1 win at the Parc des Princes has piled the pressure on Tuchel, with PSG’s Qatar owners desperate to conquer Europe.
Standard Sport revealed in December that Mourinho was confident Real would offer him an escape route, but was determined not to walk away from Old Trafford. Real’s humiliating Champions League elimination at the hands of Ajax on Tuesday has seen links with Mourinho intensify, with former president Ramon Calderon claiming contact has already been made. But events at PSG could make Mourinho think twice.
He openly flirted with the French champions in 2017 before eventually signing a contract extension with United. That was widely regarded as a negotiating ploy – but sources close to him at the time claimed it was a very real possibility he would leave United to take over at the Parc des Princes. Mourinho has indicated he would be willing to step down from the very highest tier of club management for the right project. But he is unlikely to have to make that choice with both Real and PSG potential stages for his return. {EveningStandard}