Jose Mourinho Vs Stamford Bridge: Every Time He Returned As A Rival Manager

Jose Mourinho Vs Stamford Bridge

Jose Mourinho’s name is forever linked with Chelsea. Twice he took charge at Stamford Bridge, winning league titles, domestic cups, and building a reputation as one of the greatest managers in the club’s history. But after his exits, Mourinho often found himself back at the famous ground, this time as a rival manager.

Each return was dramatic, emotional, and closely watched by fans around the world. Some nights brought heartbreak for Chelsea, others reaffirmed the bond between Mourinho and the Blues faithful. This article revisits every one of those occasions when Mourinho stood in the Stamford Bridge dugout as the opponent.

Inter Milan Return (2010 Champions League)

Mourinho’s first return came with Inter Milan in March 2010 during the UEFA Champions League Round of 16. The tie was filled with tension as Mourinho faced the club he had left just a few years earlier.

Inter Milan arrived with a tactical plan that frustrated Chelsea across two legs. The Italians won 1-0 at Stamford Bridge thanks to Samuel Eto’o’s goal, securing a 3-1 aggregate victory. For Mourinho, it was a sweet moment, knocking out his former club while steering Inter toward what would eventually be a historic treble-winning season.

Real Madrid Return (2013 Pre-Season Friendly)

In August 2013, shortly after leaving Real Madrid, Mourinho returned to Chelsea for his second managerial stint. But before that, he had already faced Chelsea with Madrid in a high-profile pre-season friendly.

Though the match carried less weight than a competitive fixture, it was a reminder of Mourinho’s constant connection with Stamford Bridge. The Portuguese tactician was warmly received, and his bond with Chelsea supporters remained intact despite his new employers.

Manchester United Returns (2016-2018)

When Mourinho was appointed Manchester United manager in 2016, it meant multiple high-profile returns to Stamford Bridge. His first Premier League game back ended in disappointment, with Chelsea winning 4-0 in October 2016. The scoreline was a harsh reminder of the challenge he faced with his new club.

However, Mourinho did get some revenge later that season, beating Chelsea 2-0 at Old Trafford. At Stamford Bridge, results remained mixed: he lost to Chelsea in the 2017 FA Cup quarter-final but oversaw tighter contests in the league. These matches were always emotionally charged, with Chelsea fans torn between respect for their former hero and loyalty to their team.

Tottenham Hotspur Returns (2019-2021)

Mourinho’s next chapter brought him to the Blues again, this time with London rivals Tottenham Hotspur. Appointed Spurs boss in late 2019, he was back at Stamford Bridge just months later in December of that year.

The rivalry was intense, and The Blues managed to come out on top, winning 2-1. His later visits with Tottenham were similarly hard-fought, but he struggled to secure victories against his former club at their home ground. These matches highlighted the tactical battles Mourinho always relished, even if results did not always go his way.

Mourinho’s Bond with Chelsea Fans

Despite competing against Chelsea multiple times at Stamford Bridge, Mourinho has always maintained a special connection with the fans. He was often applauded before kick-offs, and chants of “The Special One” could still be heard. Even in defeat, his legacy as the man who made The Blues a dominant force in English football remained unshaken.

Jose Mourinho’s returns to Stamford Bridge as a rival manager have been marked by drama, nostalgia, and passion. From Champions League battles with Inter to Premier League clashes with Manchester United and Tottenham, every comeback carried weight. Though results varied, his presence always ensured the fixture felt bigger than usual.

As he returns once again, the story of Mourinho and Stamford Bridge continues, a tale of glory, rivalry, and enduring respect.