Former Chelsea and Real Madrid manager, Jose Mourinho, has opened up about his relationship with African players, particularly addressing the affectionate “daddy” tag attributed to him by Michael Essien, one of his notable signings.
On the Vibe with Five podcast, Mourinho shared his observations on the immense respect he receives from African players, acknowledging their loyalty and purity in their admiration for him.
“Every time I go to Africa I cannot walk. The guys, they love me. Even in Europe many of the African guys love me. And to be honest, I love the guys and I feel that the African player is very loyal and very pure. Many of them call me daddy and some of them are almost my age. When Essein calls me daddy, I say ‘Come on Michael, don’t call me daddy you are almost my age,” he said.
While Mourinho appreciates the admiration, he humorously revealed his discomfort with Essien referring to him as “daddy,” citing their close age proximity.
“When Essien calls me daddy, I say ‘Come on Michael, don’t call me daddy, you are almost my age,” Mourinho quipped.
The bond between Mourinho and Essien extends beyond football, with Essien crediting Mourinho for his success. The Ghanaian midfielder played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s 2005-2006 Premier League triumph, solidifying their father-and-son-like relationship.
Essien, alongside other African stars such as Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou, and John Obi-Mikel, were instrumental signings by Mourinho, contributing significantly to his managerial success at Chelsea.
Despite managing various African talents, Mourinho shares a unique connection with Essien, who had the privilege of playing under Mourinho twice at Chelsea and Real Madrid, underscoring their special bond on and off the field.
