José Mourinho, one of football’s most celebrated and controversial managers, has had a career defined by his tactical brilliance and the high-profile players he has managed. Throughout his career, Mourinho has made a series of significant transfers, often selling star players for record-breaking sums. As he has moved from club to club, many of these players have continued to make headlines. Here’s a look at where the ten most expensive players sold by José Mourinho are now and how their careers have evolved since their high-profile transfers.
- Cristiano Ronaldo – £80 Million (Manchester United to Real Madrid, 2009)
Current Status: Cristiano Ronaldo, sold by Mourinho from Manchester United to Real Madrid in 2009, has become one of football’s all-time greats. After a prolific stint with Real Madrid, Ronaldo transferred to Juventus in 2018 and returned to Manchester United in 2021. As of 2024, he plays for Al Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, continuing to break records and influence the game.
- Éden Hazard – £88 Million (Chelsea to Real Madrid, 2019)
Current Status: Mourinho’s Chelsea sold Éden Hazard to Real Madrid in 2019 for a then-record fee. Hazard struggled with injuries during his time at Real Madrid, impacting his performance. As of 2024, he is currently a free agent, having left Real Madrid in 2023. His future in football remains uncertain, with speculation about potential retirement or a move to another club.
- Luka Modrić – £30 Million (Tottenham Hotspur to Real Madrid, 2012)
Current Status: While Mourinho was not directly involved in Luka Modrić’s sale, his tenure at Real Madrid saw Modrić become a crucial part of the team. Modrić remains with Real Madrid as of 2024, still contributing to the team with his exceptional midfield skills and leadership, despite his advancing age.
- Michael Essien – £24.4 Million (Chelsea to Real Madrid, 2012)
Current Status: Michael Essien was sold by Chelsea to Real Madrid during Mourinho’s first stint with the Spanish club. Essien’s career took him to several clubs after leaving Real Madrid, including AC Milan and Persib Bandung. As of 2024, Essien has retired from professional football and is involved in coaching and ambassadorial roles.
- Ricardo Carvalho – £30 Million (Chelsea to Real Madrid, 2010)
Current Status: Ricardo Carvalho, a key defender under Mourinho at Chelsea, moved to Real Madrid in 2010. After a successful stint with Real Madrid, Carvalho played for FC Porto and then retired from professional football. He has since transitioned to a role in coaching and sports management.
- Samuel Eto’o – £28 Million (Inter Milan to Anzhi Makhachkala, 2011)
Current Status: Mourinho’s Inter Milan sold Samuel Eto’o to Anzhi Makhachkala in 2011, making headlines for the record fee. Eto’o enjoyed a varied career post-Anzhi, playing for several clubs, including Chelsea and Everton. He retired from professional football in 2019 and has since engaged in various philanthropic activities and football-related ventures.
- James Rodríguez – £63 Million (Monaco to Real Madrid, 2014)
Current Status: James Rodríguez was a key player for Monaco before being sold to Real Madrid. Although Mourinho was not at Real Madrid at the time, James’ time at the club was marked by both highs and lows. After a stint with Bayern Munich and Everton, James signed with Olympiacos in 2022 and continues to be a significant player in the Greek Super League.
- Juan Mata – £37.1 Million (Chelsea to Manchester United, 2014)
Current Status: Chelsea sold Juan Mata to Manchester United during Mourinho’s time at the club. Mata has been a consistent performer for Manchester United but has since moved to Galatasaray in 2023. At Galatasaray, Mata continues to bring his experience and creativity to the Turkish league.
- Romelu Lukaku – £97.5 Million (Inter Milan to Chelsea, 2021)
Current Status: Romelu Lukaku, sold to Chelsea for a record fee, struggled to live up to expectations during his second stint with the club. He was loaned back to Inter Milan in 2022 and has since returned to the Premier League with AS Roma. Lukaku remains a potent forward, aiming to rediscover his best form.
- Wesley Sneijder – £15 Million (Inter Milan to Galatasaray, 2013)
Current Status:
Inter Milan sold Wesley Sneijder to Galatasaray during Mourinho’s tenure. Sneijder enjoyed a successful period at Galatasaray before moving to clubs like Nice and retiring in 2019. Since retiring, Sneijder has been involved in coaching and media roles, contributing his expertise to the football world.
Numerous high-profile transfers, many of which involved record-breaking sums for the players involved, have marked José Mourinho’s career. From Cristiano Ronaldo’s continued success to Michael Essien’s transition into retirement, the careers of these players reflect the varied paths professional footballers take. As Mourinho continues to make his mark on the football world, the legacy of these transfers serves as a testament to his influence and the impact of his managerial decisions.