Mourinho claims: He was Portugal's only choice, turning down the offer

Roma coach Jose Mourinho File photo: AFP

Fernando Santos stepped down as coach of Portugal after exiting in the quarter-finals of the World Cup. Several names were heard in his place, but in the end, Portugal appointed Roberto Martinez, the former coach of Belgium.

On appointing him, the president of the Portuguese Football Federation, Fernando Gomez, said, 'I have a great relationship with the Portuguese coaches. We have only offered Roberto Martinez though.' However, the country's high-profile coach, Jose Mourinho, spoke against Gomez's claim.

After the Italian Cup match, Roma coach Mourinho said he was the only choice as a possible coach for Cristiano Ronaldo. He also said that he has turned down the proposal given by the federation.

"I want to thank the Portuguese federation," said Mourinho, who was delighted to receive the offer. I am proud of what he (Federations president) said. He said, I am not his first choice, but his only choice. He will do anything to bring me home. It made me happy.'

Roberto Martinez is the new coach of Portugal Photo: Reuters

Mourinho is considered one of the best coaches in Portugal history. Besides winning two Champions Leagues and leagues in four different countries, Mourinho has numerous trophies to his name.

However, with the offer to work with the national team of his country, the former Real Madrid coach said, 'I have decided not to go myself. I'm here and giving it my all.'

Mourinho, however, was rumored to be the coach of the Brazilian national team. The Brazilian Football Federation contacted him. However, after that rumor, the branches did not match. But for now, Mourinho said that he is very good at Roma.