Chelsea is looking for a permanent successor to Rosenior, who was fired after failing to stabilize the club. Even though fans frequently chant Mourinho's name during difficult moments, the board leans toward younger coaches such as Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth) or Marco Silva (Fulham). Although Mourinho has historic ties to the club, the ownership prefers a different long-term vision for the squad.

Journalist Ben Jacobs explained to GiveMeSport: "Chelsea has always downplayed the return of Jose Mourinho. So something would have to change there. It is worth noting that Mourinho is expected to be a free agent and many people believe, in fact, that it is very likely he will accept the position of Portugal national team coach after the World Cup."

In difficult moments, it is common for part of the crowd to chant Mourinho's name, reflecting the affection and nostalgia left by his time at the club. However, the club's internal perception indicates that the "romantic reunion" is not among its immediate plans. For Mourinho's return to happen, a relevant change in circumstances and in the stance of the sporting project would be necessary.

Furthermore, an external factor reduces the probability of an immediate return: Jose Mourinho is expected to become a free agent, and many believe he could head toward a new international challenge. Specifically, it is suggested that the coach could end up linked to the Portugal job after the World Cup, a detail that would also influence Chelsea's timing.

Mourinho is not just any name for Chelsea. His track record at the club is marked by two hugely impactful stints. In his first period, between 2004 and 2007, the Portuguese accumulated 124 wins in 185 matches and won two league titles. Later, on his return in 2013, he won the Premier League for a third time for the club and added another trophy, the League Cup, before his departure in 2015.

Even after his subsequent career, his presence still "weighs" on the club's memory. In fact, he recently visited Stamford Bridge with Benfica in a Champions League match, but despite that footballing nod, Chelsea insists that attention is focused on coaches with more recent Premier League experience who fit better with the player recruitment and squad-building strategy.

Calum McFarlane will lead the first team until the end of the season, while Behdad Eghbali and the sporting directors search for the next coach. The club prioritizes candidates with Premier League experience to avoid past mistakes. Although Mourinho's shadow lingers, the interest in Silva and Iraola indicates a move away from the "Special One" era.

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