ROME - An emotional return for José Mourinho, who was greeted with a standing ovation upon his return to the Olimpico in the colours of opponents Real Madrid. The former Giallorossi manager publicly thanked AS Roma fans via an Instagram post. The match, a Champions League group stage fixture, ended in a 3-4 defeat in a night of great spectacle in front of over 64,000 spectators.

The Curva Sud displayed a banner reading 'Chi porta gloria a Roma, Roma lo onorerà per sempre' ('Who brings glory to Rome, Rome will honour him forever'), while in the Tribuna Tevere another banner stated 'Per il mondo special e per roma immortale... Ave Mou'. Throughout the game, chants from the supporters were dedicated to the Portuguese coach, who responded by placing his hand on his heart and blowing a kiss towards the curva. Outside the stadium, some fans also gathered under Real Madrid's hotel for photos and autographs.

Mourinho's words

Hours after the final whistle, Mourinho posted a message on social media. “When the most beautiful moments of a long career are neither the goals nor the victories, but rather emotions for which I can only humbly express my gratitude,” the coach wrote. “Thank you Roma, thank you romanisti. Emotions and eternal gratitude to you.”

The manager, who led the club to Conference League glory in 2022 and the Europa League final in 2023, thus reaffirmed his deep affection for the club. Tuesday's defeat did not overshadow the atmosphere of mutual appreciation on a night that blended memories of past successes with the reality of the present.

The season's context

Roma now turn their attention back to the league after this intense European commitment. Daniele De Rossi's side sit third in Serie A with 14 points, just two behind leaders Inter, and have the league's best attack with 14 goals scored. The next fixture is already set for Saturday, October 17th, with the visit of Genoa, currently 17th in the table. A win would consolidate their position ahead of the derby.

In the match against Los Blancos, Donyell Malen confirmed his rich vein of form with a brace, taking his seasonal tally to six goals in six appearances. Goals also came from Marten de Roon, while Mbappé, Carlos Espí, Endrick and Rüdiger scored for Real Madrid in stoppage time. The team must now quickly turn the page, focusing on maintaining their pace in the league.

This story first appeared at Sky Sport IT