Jose Mourinho rejected Daniel Levy’s first approach to appoint him as Tottenham manager 12 years ago, citing that he couldn’t do it out of respect to Chelsea.
The Portuguese became the new Spurs boss on Wednesday, penning a three-and-a-half year deal as he replaced the axed Mauricio Pochettino.
The appointment marks Mourinho’s return to Premier League football 11 months after he was sacked by Manchester United , and a return to London following his two spells at Stamford Bridge, where he won three Premier League titles.
“I am excited to be joining a club with such a great heritage and such passionate supporters,” said Mourinho in a statement on Wednesday morning.
“The quality in both the squad and the academy excites me. Working with these players is what has attracted me.”
Levy added: “In Jose we have one of the most successful managers in football.
“He has a wealth of experience, can inspire teams and is a great tactician. He has won honours at every club he has coached. We believe he will bring energy and belief to the dressing room.”
