Jose Mourinho has said Japan’s victory over Germany wasn’t a ‘crazy surprise’ and that there is a big focus on egos in European football.
Mourinho, along with his AS Roma squad, is in Japan for training during the six-week Serie A break.
The Giallorossi have scheduled friendlies against Yokohama F. Marinos and Nagoya Grampus.
Speaking in a press conference, Mourinho shared his thoughts about Japan’s incredible feat and said the result hardly came as a surprise to him.
The Roma coach spoke about Japan’s World Cup win over Germany.
“I didn’t see the match, I was in bed, the television was on but I fell asleep, I was devastated. Congratulations to Japan, but it’s not such a big surprise, they’re a good team that is growing.
Jose Mourinho has said Japan’s victory over Germany wasn’t a ‘crazy surprise’ and that there is a big focus on egos in European football. pic.twitter.com/ExxvMyJD4j
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) November 24, 2022
“I think at this moment in European football, there is a big focus on the individual, a big focus on egos, and when I look at your profile as people, your profile as country, I have never coached Japanese players, but I’ve coached Asian players.
“In my case, I was lucky because I’ve coached the best Asian player, (Son Heung-min) and I understand that the mentality is really special.”
Japan face Costa Rica in their next match while Germany face Spain.
