Sunday, 23rd March, 2014
Paris Saint-Germain coach Laurent Blanc has spoken of his respect for Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho.
Blanc ran into Mourinho at Barcelona, where he played as a defender in the 1996/97 campaign, while Mourinho was working as assistant coach to Sir Bobby Robson at the Camp Nou.
mobile ad
And already at that early stage in his career the Portuguese made an impact on the current PSG boss.
"I have very fond memories of him", Blanc explained to Le Parisien.
relatedNewsStory
"Already in 1996, we knew that he would not stay as an assistant for long.
"He already had the ability to communicate with players since he spoke several languages.
"He was speaking almost like a coach."
And Blanc is not the least bit shocked at how Mourinho has become one of the most highly rated managers in world football.
"His career does not surprise me", said the former France coach.
"He loves football.
"He is very smart and very intelligent. This is what makes him one of the best coaches in the world."
Don't bet on football until you've visited Inside Bet! Interesting markets, top tips, betting facts – get all the info before you bet.
