As Benfica and Chelsea gear up for their UEFA Champions League encounter, Jose Mourinho has revealed the Chelsea player he most desires to manage at his current club.
In anticipation of Benfica’s upcoming Champions League fixture against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, Jose Mourinho identified Chelsea’s Portuguese winger Pedro Neto as the standout player he would love to have under his guidance at Benfica.
During his pre-match media briefing, the 62-year-old tactician lavished praise on the 25-year-old international, highlighting Neto’s exceptional talent and potential.
Interestingly, Neto has previously expressed admiration for Mourinho, crediting him as a trailblazer who opened doors for Portuguese footballers worldwide and describing the prospect of playing for him as a great honor.
Mourinho Commends Neto’s Abilities
While Mourinho openly admired Neto’s skill set, he acknowledged the financial gap that makes acquiring such a player unattainable for Benfica at present.
“Pedro Neto ranks among the elite wingers worldwide,” Mourinho remarked.
He added, “Roberto [Martinez], managing the Portuguese national squad, is fortunate to have not just Neto but several players of his caliber.”
Turning his focus back to Benfica, Mourinho reflected, “Our squad doesn’t boast many players like him. Naturally, I would welcome Pedro Neto, but he operates in a vastly different environment, especially when it comes to financial resources.”
Concluding his thoughts, Mourinho extended his best wishes to Neto, hoping for a career free from injuries and expressing gratitude for the player’s kind remarks.
“All I can do is wish him a successful, injury-free journey ahead. I also appreciate his generous words,” Mourinho said.