Is Mourinho getting red cards on purpose?

Jose Mourinho the Red Card specialist | Imago

Is Mourinho getting red cards on purpose?

Ayoola Kelechi 20:14 - 09.01.2024

Mourinho has been sent off seven times as Roma manager, but is there a pattern to the Portuguese's numerous red cards?

AS Roma head coach Jose Mourinho has recently been the subject of extensive media coverage following his latest red card during a match between AS Roma and Atalanta.

The Portuguese manager has picked up a peculiar habit of picking up red cards and suspensions whenever his Roma side are due for a trip to San Siro, which the Special One once called home.

José Mourinho's most recent red card incident

The Roma head coach once again came under the spotlight after receiving a red card during Roma's recent 1-1 draw with Atalanta, his seventh dismissal in just over two years with the club, spotlighting his frequent clashes with match officials.

Roma manager Jose Mourinho may depart the Eternal City in 2024 (Photo Credit: Roma Press/X)
Roma manager Jose Mourinho may depart the Eternal City in 2024 (Photo Credit: Roma Press/X)

Mourinho's latest red card means he will miss the upcoming match against AC Milan at the San Siro, which holds special significance for Mourinho due to his previous successes there with Inter Milan.

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His absence in key games at this venue has become a notable pattern, contributing to speculations about the underlying reasons behind these incidents.

Mourinho's history of San Siro absences

The trend of Mourinho getting suspended before Roma's games at the San Siro has been observed multiple times. He has missed a significant number of games against both AC Milan and Inter Milan due to disqualification, which raises questions about this recurring pattern. 

Jose Mourinho lifts the Champions League with Inter Milan | Imago
Jose Mourinho lifts the Champions League with Inter Milan | Imago

Mourinho's absences at the San Siro include crucial matches, such as the Coppa Italia quarter-final in February 2022 and a Serie A match in October 2022.

Jose Mourinho won the Champions League with Inter Milan in 2010 | Imago
Jose Mourinho won the Champions League with Inter Milan in 2010 | Imago

He has missed one match against AC Milan and two matches against Inter during his spell as Roma coach, meaning he has been suspended for three of six possible appearances at the San Siro.

AS Roma's Disciplinary Record Under Mourinho

Since Mourinho's appointment, AS Roma has led Serie A in terms of red cards received. This statistic is a clear indicator of the team's disciplinary issues under his leadership.

Mourinho had a heated moment with Taylor against Sevilla in the Europa League final last season.
Mourinho had a heated moment with Taylor against Sevilla in the Europa League final last season.

The high number of red cards has affected Roma's performance in the league. Disciplinary actions not only affect the team's on-field strategies but also its reputation and standing in the league.

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