Fenerbahce manager Jose Mourinho has opened up about one of the most significant regrets in his illustrious career, which is declining the opportunity to continue with Real Madrid under the leadership of president Florentino Perez.

Jose Mourinho, who enjoyed a tumultuous yet successful tenure at Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, revealed that he frequently reflects on this pivotal moment.

After three demanding years filled with intense pressure and expectations, he decided to leave the club and rejoin Chelsea, a move he believed was necessary for his career at that time.

“Looking back, saying no to Florentino Perez remains one of the big regrets of my professional life,” Mourinho admitted in a candid interview with CorSport.

He recounted a specific conversation with Perez where the president urged him to reconsider his departure.

Mourinho recalled: “He told me: ‘Don’t leave now; you’ve done the hard part, and the good part is yet to come. Stay at Real Madrid.’”

Despite this compelling advice, Mourinho felt a strong desire to return to Chelsea in the Premier League, believing that he could not endure another season in Spain after the exhausting experiences he faced in La Liga.

During his time with Real Madrid, Mourinho achieved considerable success, winning the La Liga title, along with the Copa del Rey and the Supercopa de Espana.

However, the weight of that decision now lingers in his mind as he navigates the complexities of his coaching journey.