Alessandro Florenzi, a former defender for Roma, has revealed that José Mourinho expressed interest in bringing him back to the Stadio Olimpico in 2021, stating, “He knew the rumors about me fighting with everyone weren’t true.”
The ex-Italy international shared that Mourinho wished to collaborate with him after taking the helm of the Giallorossi, which came as a surprise to many.
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Florenzi: Mourinho was aware I hadn’t clashed with everyone at Roma
“He reached out to me, asking why I was supposedly at odds with everyone,” Florenzi told Corriere dello Sport.
“If you ask the people in Trigoria, they’ll tell you the rumors were false. Mourinho knew as much. He wanted me, and I would have played for him.”
Florenzi dedicated nine seasons to Roma before departing in January 2020. He subsequently played for Valencia and PSG on loan, and when Mourinho was appointed head coach of Roma in 2021, it opened the door for a potential return to the Olimpico.
However, after returning from PSG, Florenzi chose to join Milan, initially on loan before making the move permanent from 2022 to 2023.
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The Euro 2020 champion found the net 28 times in 280 appearances for Roma. He announced his retirement following the 2024-25 season, leaving fans curious about his next steps.
“Coaching must be a challenging job,” he commented.
“I can’t say for sure what my future holds; many suggest coaching would suit me, while others think I should pursue a directorial role. I’d love to engage with players, work alongside them, and offer my assistance, but I’m still uncertain about the exact path I’ll take.”
Florenzi also made two goals in 49 caps for the Italy national team, with his last match taking place in June 2022 during a 0-0 draw against England.
LISBON, PORTUGAL – NOVEMBER 05: José Mourinho, Head Coach of Benfica, observes prior to the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4 match between SL Benfica and Bayer 04 Leverkusen on November 05, 2025, in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)