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Former Inter Milan star Wesley Sneijder has offered a glimpse into the unique managerial style of Jose Mourinho, describing the Portuguese coach as the instigator of team banter.
Sneijder, who played under Mourinho during Inter's treble-winning season in 2010, highlighted Mourinho's unconventional approach to team dynamics.
While other managers might maintain a distance, Mourinho preferred to sit among his players, often initiating playful exchanges.
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Sneijder on Mourinho
Sneijder has given an insight into the type of relationship Mourinho has with his players compared to other coaches.
“If I compare Jose to other coaches in my career, he was unique,” Sneijder told BetMGM. “He would sit in the middle with us on the bus or plane. He was the one who would throw the first pillow or crack the first joke.”
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Sneijder recalled a specific instance before a Champions League match against Chelsea. Mourinho instructed the players to bring their partners on the team plane.
Observing Sneijder's unusual quietness, Mourinho playfully remarked, "Wes, you're very quiet. Normally, you talk a lot." Sneijder emphasised Mourinho's knack for understanding and connecting with everyone, including players' families.
“He had this amazing ability to remember everyone's birthday, even family members," Sneijder added. "It might seem small, but it made a big difference.”
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Sneijder also shared an anecdote about the 2010 Champions League final. When the team's suit sponsor suggested a uniform look for the players, Mourinho rejected the idea.
Since the team had won previous matches wearing whatever they pleased – "like gypsies," as Mourinho put it – he insisted they maintain that approach for the final. "One player wore shorts, another wore trousers; it didn't matter," Sneijder recalled.
Both Sneijder and Mourinho will be watching with interest as Inter Milan contests another Champions League final this Saturday against PSG
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