José Mourinho, Benfica’s coach, recalled his title win while managing FC Porto.
In his reaction to Benfica’s 2-0 victory over Ajax in Amsterdam, on the fifth matchday of the Champions League group stage, José Mourinho pulled rank by recalling his victory in the competition in 2004, while managing FC Porto.
Does Ajax’s playing style complicate their chances in the Champions League?
“It’s not the way Ajax wants to get there. It has to do with the sharks of European football. Ajax has a great history, but I don’t think it’s an economic shark. It’s like the Portuguese clubs. They’re not like Real Madrid. Champions League titles are no longer for Ajax. When was the last time a club outside the top five leagues won the Champions League?”
Journalist: “FC Porto [in 2004, with Mourinho].”
José Mourinho: “Yes [nods his head]. Yes.”
Manu Silva
“Manu Silva needs to train a lot, gain a certain level of intensity. Putting him in the game has its risks. With the game at 200 miles an hour, I couldn’t put him on for 20 minutes. The fact that he came on today is symbolic. Almost a year later he returned and it was the first time he played in the Champions League. He has worked very hard and suffered a lot. Those who don’t play, suffer.”