The Special One ahead of the match against Fiorentina: ‘In the last game, the referee had a good game, and I said it at the end of the match.’
José Mourinho, on the eve of the match against Fiorentina, discussed his meeting with the Federal Prosecutor following accusations against referee Mercenatore before Sassuolo-Roma. “From the sports justice, I expect fairness. They gave me the opportunity to say everything I could say, and I told them the truth,” explained The Special One in a press conference. “I have never insulted the referee, I simply used an expression that is normal for me. I was misunderstood. The referee had a good game, and I said it at the end of the match. I expect fair justice.”
Mourinho also addressed accusations of unsportsmanlike conduct against Domenico Berardi. “Berardi is a Sassuolo’s problem. It’s also a character problem, when they met me before the game, they greeted me. Then the next day I see they talk behind my back,” added the Roma coach. “As a high-level coach for over 20 years, I feel the duty to defend the game of football.”
He expressed great appreciation for Tiago Pinto (the Sporting Director), who stood for him in these troubled times. “For me, Tiago Pinto is Roma. When he speaks, Roma speaks. I don’t want the club’s support when I’m wrong, but when I’m not wrong, I’m pleased that the club supports me.”
Regarding his potential renewal, Mourinho stated, “It’s a hypothetical question. I don’t like to answer hypothetical questions. I was pleased with the club’s support, and I appreciate the recognition that I do everything I can to help the club. Today it’s no secret that the Friedkins are here; we have talked, and the relationship is positive. But we haven’t discussed my future.“
On the injury front, Mourinho provided these updates: “It’s been a good week; we were able to work well. Smalling‘s situation remains unchanged; Kumbulla is starting to train with us; if all goes well, he could help the team for 10-15 minutes. Then Renato Sanches and Pellegrini, who are recovering from recent injuries, have had a good week. It’s been a while since we all worked together on tactical principles.”
