Big clubs on alert: Sacked Jose Mourinho ‘will not be taking a sabbatical’

Sacked Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho is “looking forward” and will not be taking a sabbatical, according to a spokesman. A statement from the agency which represents the 52-year-old said: “During his career, José has sometimes chosen to leave a club, but only at Chelsea has the club decided that he should leave. Each time represents for him the end of a cycle, and the opportunity to start a new one. José hopes that his future after Chelsea this time will be as successful as when he left the club in 2007." The statement comes after Chelsea announced it could appoint a successor to Mourinho within days with suggestions former boss Guus Hiddink will return for a second spell in charge.

He will not be taking a sabbatical, he isn’t tired, he doesn’t need it, he is very positive, and is already looking forward.

Jose Mourinho’s spokesman

The west London club announced on Thursday afternoon they had parted company with Mourinho by "mutual consent” after a poor start to the season left them one point above the relegation zone. Mourinho, the self-proclaimed “Special One”, was called to Chelsea’s training ground and sacked at 2pm by club chairman Bruce Buck and director Eugene Tenenbaum. His Los Angeles based commercial agent added their client’s passion for the game meant he would continue to work in football for the foreseeable future. "Because of his love of football, you will see José at football grounds working and supporting friends,“ he said. "José will not speak about his current situation for the foreseeable future. He asks the media to respect this decision.”

He will not be attending any high-profile games because he wants to discourage any speculation about his future. José will remain living in London and hopes he and his family will be given the opportunity to do this privately.

Jose Mourinho’s spokesman

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