Because of his confrontational nature, Mourinho has frequently been depicted negatively in interviews. Notwithstanding his accomplishments, Mourinho’s interviews have sometimes overshadowed them, with detractors claiming that his erratic media persona compromises team cohesion and alienates supporters. In fact, he made some controversial comments earlier this month after Fenerbahce’s last-gasp 3-2 win over Trabzonspor, leading the Turkish Football Federation (TFF) to sanction a one-match ban and an additional fine of over £20,000.
Milito, however, has only good memories of his time with the former Chelsea, Porto, Real Madrid, Roma, and Manchester United manager, stating that the 61-year-old sacrifices his public image to protect the team.
“He has one face on the outside but inside [the locker room] he is completely different,” Milito told Tyc Sports (h/t Calciomercato).
“On the outside he appears as the ‘evil’ to protect the team and reduce the pressure, but inside he is a very pleasant person. Personally, he was truly extraordinary with me. When I signed with Inter he called me to welcome me and I told him that I wanted the number 22 shirt: I knew that it was occupied by Paolo Orlandoni at the time. I told him that in truth the number wouldn’t be a problem, but Jose told me to stay calm. Then, when I arrived at Inter, Paolo told me that Mou told him in a training session: ‘Paolo, I have to ask you a favor and you have to say yes. You have to free up the 22’. And in the end I took the 22.”