Dreams and obsessions | Dylan White

Dylan White casts a critical eye over ITV’s Mourinho.ITV’s latest documentary titled Mourinho, takes a look at the managerial record of one of football’s most charismatic figures.  Over the past decade, the beautiful game has witnessed the unexpected rise to prominence of Jose Mourinho, possibly one of the greatest masterminded tacticians ever to grace the touchline.     Mourinho explores moments of divine ingenuity that have defined this determined and driven character, entailing a little controversy along the way.  Having studied the game for more than 15 years, collating information, drawing up strategies and passing exams, the Special One made the conscious decision to go into management. Mourinho spent the summer of 2000 transforming his detailed notes and observations into his own footballing bible, rewriting the rules of engagement for the 21^st century coach.The documentary highlights the confidence that radiates off this fascinating individual. Mourinho appears to be completely at home and unfazed by the constant demands of the world that surrounds him.  Mourinho’s ability to walk into a press conference and take control almost “makes Machiavelli look like a beginner”.Mourinho’s brash exterior and flamboyant persona divided opinion amongst pundits and punters alike when he first became part of the Roman Abramovich era at Chelsea. The media hanged on his every word, with biographer Patrick Barclay comparing his influence on English society with Brian Clough, one of the greatest managers ever to grace the dug-out: “Please don’t call me arrogant because what I’m saying is true”.Mourinho’s tremendous footballing brain ensured that he continued to evolve as a student of the game, in the process of inspiring all those around him.  His meticulous nature and intellectual ability was pivotal to his immediate success at Chelsea.  Mourinho hit the ground running, encouraging his players to express themselves and remain true to their personality, both on and off the playing surface. He managed to instil a ruthless streak in the Londoners that had not been seen for quite some time, basing his tactics on the belief that “we cannot lose”.Nonetheless, Mourinho’s tenure in England was overshadowed by his failure to win Chelsea the coveted Champions League, and came to an abrupt ending in 2007. This paved the way for Mourinho to take Series A by storm.  With Inter Milan probably at the lowest ebb ever in the club’s history, Mourinho took charge, winning the treble, a feat no other coach had ever achieved before.However, the Italian establishment didn’t like Mourinho’s antics and gestures. His tempestuous behaviour spoke volumes, defying the system and overstepping the mark on a continual basis. Although he remained resolute to the very end, it was with great sadness that Mourinho bided an emotional farewell to the players he had grown to call his own.Forgive many for believing that the motivation behind Mourinho’s decision to take over at Real Madrid in the summer of 2010 stemmed partly down to his affiliation with his previous employers Barcelona. It appears as though he wants to prove his former paid masters wrong, bridging the gap between being a mere club translator, and being a great coach.Without a doubt, Mourinho offers a unique insight into the career of the abrasive and confrontational yet lovable Jose Mourinho.  His movie star satire, acting in a relaxed yet egotistical way at times when he should be under immense pressure glues millions to their screens, making for box office entertainment. The huge media entourage that surrounds Mourinho is a testimony to the status he has achieved over such a short time span.  We are indebted to the magician that is Mourinho, incomparable to the rest.Yet, we cannot help but feel for the man behind the mask.  As a devoted father and husband, Mourinho has to balance his responsibilities, and ensure that his dreams don’t become obsessions.  He recognises that the difference between success and failure is very narrow, with the prospect of switching off a light and becoming a person that nobody knows appearing to be a master class even too great for the Special One.