Jose Mourinho almost became Barcelona manager before Joan Laporta stepped in – report

In 2008, Jose Mourinho almost became the Barcelona manager, but his chance was blocked by Joan Laporta. At the time, Barcelona was looking for a replacement for Frank Rijkaard, and Mourinho was seen as the leading candidate. During the internal selection process, Mourinho received the strongest backing from the board in the first vote. Pep Guardiola, who would later lead Barça to success, received no votes.

Barcelona representatives traveled to Galicia to meet Mourinho, with Marc Ingla attending and Txiki Begiristain expected but unable to attend due to logistical issues. After the meeting, the candidates were put to a vote, with Mourinho winning by a landslide. Joan Laporta, however, intervened and chose Pep Guardiola as Barcelona's new manager.

Mourinho was eager to return to Barcelona, having previously worked there as an assistant and interpreter. His intention was to bring his understanding of the club's football philosophy, but he ultimately pursued a different path, leading Real Madrid and developing a fierce rivalry with Barcelona. The alternate history where Mourinho managed Barcelona remains a fascinating topic, with some believing that his team might have played better football than the teams managed by Mourinho.