Mourinho Dismisses Link To PSG's Job

AS Roma coach Jose Mourinho dismissed persistent rumours linking him to a potential managerial role at Paris Saint-Germain ahead of the first leg of the Europa League semifinal against Bayer Leverkusen.

Brushing off the speculation, Mourinho reaffirmed his loyalty to Roma, emphasizing his current contract that extends until 2024.

When asked about the PSG rumours, Mourinho humorously responded, "If they called, they didn't find me." The coach's focus remains firmly on Roma's upcoming match against Leverkusen, acknowledging the challenges they will face against Xabi Alonso's squad.

Notably, Mourinho and Alonso had a successful partnership during their time together at Real Madrid, winning several prestigious titles.

During the news conference, Mourinho expressed admiration for his former player, Xabi Alonso, praising their rapport beyond the typical coach-player relationship. The Portuguese tactician also highlighted Leverkusen's strengths, particularly their ability to execute swift counter-attacks, which he considers among the best in Europe.

"They are very dangerous in this moment of the game," Mourinho stated, emphasizing the threat posed by Leverkusen's attacking players. "He uses the style that suits his players more, five or six ... of them could run the 100m with Marcel Jacobs at the Olympics."

Despite Roma's third consecutive appearance in the semifinals of a prominent European competition, Mourinho downplayed any pressure on his team.

Citing their experience, he stated, "We have enough experience not to be too excited for being in the semifinals and not to be too fixated on the fact that it is the first game and that it is played at home."

Mourinho also provided updates on the availability of key players for the match. Striker Paulo Dybala and midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum are unlikely to feature in the starting lineup due to their ongoing injuries. However, Mourinho assured that the team would make every effort to fully recover them while remaining focused on the match at hand.

The first leg of the Europa League semifinal between Roma and Leverkusen will take place at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Thursday. The return leg is scheduled for May 18, where both teams will vie for a place in the final of the competition.