Jose Mourinho signed Nemanja Matic for three different clubs, including Manchester United.
The only player Jose Mourinho signed on three separate occasions is Nemanja Matic.
The Serbian first joined Mourinho at Chelsea in January 2014 when he returned to Stamford Bridge for a second time. They enjoyed Premier League success in 2015 but the ‘Special One’ was sacked halfway through their title defence.
Matic would eventually join forces with Mourinho again at Manchester United in 2017 – but their reunion lasted just over a year due to a managerial change at Old Trafford.
It only took three-and-a-half years for Mourinho to call upon Matic again as he signed for Roma.
There is no denying that Matic has been one of Mourinho’s most trusted lieutenants throughout his successful managerial career. Now, at 36, the former Serbia international is playing a key role under fellow Portuguese coach Paulo Fonseca at Lyon.
Nemanja Matic opens up on special connection with Jose Mourinho
Jose Mourinho did not hesitate to bring Nemanja Matic to United because he knew what sort of player he was getting from their time at Chelsea, just like he did at Roma.
Although Matic failed to win silverware during his five-year stint at Old Trafford, the experienced professional reflects positively on his time playing under Mourinho.
Speaking to Lyon’s club media, Matic gave insight into his ‘special relationship’ with Mourinho, who he describes as one of the best coaches in football history.
“With José Mourinho, my connection is obviously football, through three clubs: Chelsea, Manchester United, and Roma. So I have a special relationship with him. I appreciate him both as a coach and as a person.
“He was a very important coach in my career; there’s nothing to hide. For me, he’s one of the best coaches in the history of football. He’s special because after him, many wanted to be like him. He transformed football, especially in the Premier League. He’s special for everyone, and especially for me, because I spent a lot of time with him.
“And then, another final lost on penalties, this time with Roma against Sevilla… What can I say? Next time, I’ll have to take a penalty!
“I may not be the best player, but I’m happy that he recognises what I can bring to a team. I may not be the most talented, but the players around me are getting better, and that means a lot. The coaches knew that. My role is to make others shine, and I think Mourinho understood that. He managed Cristiano Ronaldo and other big stars… I don’t pretend to be better than them. But hearing José Mourinho say what he says about me, yes, I’m proud of it.”
Matic is preparing to face Manchester United in the Europa League quarter-final.
Matic proud of Manchester United spell
The closest Nemanja Matic came to winning a trophy came when Manchester United reached the Europa League final against Villarreal, only to lose on penalties.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer opted for a midfield pivot of Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay, while Matic was an unused substitute. It’s a decision the former United manager may regret because the game suited the Serbian midfield anchor.
| Games | Goals | Assists |
| 189 | 4 | 11 |
However, Matic still reflects on his time at United with pride.
“It’s a historic club,” Matic added. “Manchester United probably has the largest fan base in the world.
“After three and a half years at Chelsea, I needed a new challenge. United represented a fantastic opportunity. It’s incredible to have been able to play for this club. I spent five fantastic years there.
“I really enjoyed my time there, and I can confirm, from what I saw there, that Manchester United is without a doubt one of the greatest clubs in the world. I was very proud to represent them and I gave my best during those five years. I have nothing but good memories.”
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