Chelsea’s Willian admits admiration for former boss Mourinho

Chelsea midfielder Willian cannot hide the fact that he has a ‘special affection’ for former manager Jose Mourinho, with rumours swirling that the Brazilian is on his way to Manchester United this summer.

The 28-year-old international winger was signed by Mourinho back in 2013 from Anzhi Makhachkala for £30million, and won the Premier League and League Cup titles in his second season under the Portuguese manager.

And despite another league success this term, with an FA Cup final appearance still to come, the fact that Willian has had to share game time with fellow winger Pedro this season has led to speculation around his future.

Mourinho is supposedly keen to land Willian’s signature once again, and while he insists he is happy at Stamford Bridge, he admits he greatly admires the Red Devils’ boss.

“[Mourinho is] the coach who has helped me since my arrival at Chelsea. That backed me, that put me to play, that relied on my potential, that relied on my work,” he said.

“So no doubt I have affection for all [the coaches I have worked with], but Mourinho was a guy that I have a special affection and helped me a lot.

“He is a manager who talks to players, who is tactically very smart, knows how to lead the group well. “So I only have good things to say about him, this whole time I worked with him at Chelsea was very good. So he is a very good manager and person, and always tries to do the best for the team.

“The rumours here in England are very big. Of course I’m happy when other managers show up interested in my football, I’m very happy about that, but today I’m a Chelsea player.

“I have a contract until 2020 and I’m happy here at the club. Happy to live in London and my family is well adapted here too.

“If I stay, I will remain very happy, and if I have to leave, let it be to a place where I can be respected.”