Tribal Football

Pedro Neto Reveals ‘Pride’ at Facing Jose Mourinho for Impact on Portuguese Football Globally

Pedro Neto Reveals ‘Pride’ at Facing Jose Mourinho for Impact on Portuguese Football Globally
Pedro Neto Reveals ‘Pride’ at Facing Jose Mourinho for Impact on Portuguese Football GloballyUlrik Pedersen/NurPhoto / Shutterstock Editorial / Profimedia

Pedro Neto admitted he felt a sense of pride playing against Jose Mourinho, praising the former Chelsea manager for the impact he has had on Portuguese football worldwide.

The 25-year-old has established himself as one of Enzo Maresca’s favourite players and is likely to feature in Chelsea’s Champions League clash with Benfica on Tuesday (September 30).

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Sitting in the opposition dugout with be former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho, who is undisputedly the most influential Portuguese coach in history.

Speaking ahead of the game, Neto can’t help but admit his pride at facing a manager who has done so much for Portuguese football.

"As a Portuguese (player) it will be a pride to play against Mourinho," Neto told reporters.

"What he represents to the club and what he represents to Portuguese people as well, the opportunity he gave to Portuguese people to go around the world and play in the best teams and manage the best clubs. 

“We are really looking forward to playing against them and it is a really good opportunity to bounce back as well.

"You cannot have a divided opinion on him. What he did for Portugal, what he did for Portuguese people, what he has won. People in Portugal respect him a lot and know the value that he has. Benfica hired him for that reason. 

“He is one of the biggest names in Portugal with (Cristiano) Ronaldo and (Luis) Figo. It would be a privilege to be managed by Jose Mourinho, who wouldn't want to be managed by him?"