Jose Mourinho fights back tears as Roma fans say goodbye to sacked boss

Jose Mourinho appeared teary-eyed when bidding Roma fans an emotional goodbye at the club’s training ground.

The Portuguese was sacked as the Serie A side's head coach early on Tuesday morning after two-and-a-half years in charge.

Despite leading the Giallorossi to Europa Conference League glory in 2022, Mourinho was unable to build on his success and failed to lead Roma to Champions League qualification during his two full seasons at the club.

Mourinho was widely tipped to leave the Stadio Olimpico at the end of the season but last week’s Coppa Italia defeat to Lazio, followed by Sunday’s 3-1 reverse at AC Milan, prompted club chiefs to act with Roma languishing in ninth place in Serie A.

The 61-year-old was a big hit with Roma supporters as he led the club to their first trophy in 14 years.

But patience had started to wear thin in recent weeks resulting in supporters venting their displeasure following Sunday’s defeat to their arch Rome rivals at the San Siro.

The 'Special One' was given a hero's exit as he was driven out of Roma’s Trigoria training ground on Tuesday.

Mourinho opened his window before being serenaded by fans and well-wishers thanked him for his efforts in the Italian capital.

An emotional Mourinho held back the tears as he thanked the fans for their support during his tenure at the club.

He ended his exchange with one final ‘ciao’ to the waiting supporters who responded by chanting his name as he made his exit.

It remains to be seen what is next for Mourinho, who is likely to take some time away from football before assessing his options ahead of next season.

Meanwhile, Roma has moved quickly to announce the appointment of former captain Daniele De Rossi as the club’s new head coach.

The 40-year-old will take over until the end of the season with his first match in charge coming in this weekend’s clash with Verona.