Filipe Luis’s move to Atletico Madrid this summer cut short his Stamford Bridge stay. Unfortunately, for both parties the move just didn’t work. Luis, who has been somewhat tight-lipped on the matter, has come out in recent days, sharing his opinion of his former manager. His words don’t paint a pretty picture of Mourinho.
Luis told Yahoo:
He has his way of talking to the press, especially when the team loses, which can sometimes be damaging to certain players.
Mourinho has often taken criticism for the way he manages his teams, the manner in which he handles the media, and the overall demeanor that he carries. It seems that his managerial style is one that is very divisive and Luis is not a fan of it himself. He commented on how the style can alienate certain players.
Some players benefit from criticism but for others they don’t.
Luis went on to comment on how the managerial style, coupled with his opportunities in the first team may have impacted his ability to assimilate to the new environment.
I didn’t have the chance [to play] in the first match of the league season and the opportunity to play in the first game is key for players at a new club – that made everything more difficult.
Luis is a player that Chelsea should have been more careful with. Last season, the Blues were set, having healthy, in-form options at all positions. However, this season tells a much different tale.
Imagine how easy it could have been to remove Ivanovic early-on, and move Azpilicueta over and have Luis play left back. With Baba Rahman, Mourinho was more hesitant, and Ghanian has been unable to have the impact that Luis could have had.
Though Luis had issues with Mourinho’s managerial style, the entire situation could and should have been handled better. Luis is now back in Madrid, starting and enjoying his football. Chelsea are really worse off for letting him leave.
Additionally, the Brazilian’s comments go even further to prove that Mourinho’s managerial style is definitely controversial. Perhaps Mourinho could benefit by learning from these comments and adapting his style accordingly.
