José Mourinho rules out Chelsea winning the Club World Cup and declares PSG the ‘True Champions’ of the Season

Fenerbahçe boss likens tournament to preseason friendlies and praises PSG’s historic Champions League campaign

José Mourinho has cast doubt on the significance of Chelsea’s recent Club World Cup triumph, saying the tournament bears resemblance to a preseason exhibition rather than a prestigious competition. The Portuguese coach, now leading Turkish side Fenerbahçe, instead singled out Paris Saint-Germain as the true standout of the 2024/25 season.

Speaking to Canal 11, Mourinho downplayed Chelsea’s 3-0 win over PSG in the final, despite their impressive campaign that included knockout victories over Benfica, Palmeiras, and Fluminense.

“This tournament reminds me of those preseason tours I did with Real Madrid and Inter in the United States,” Mourinho remarked.

Mourinho praises Palmer but elevates PSG’s achievements

The manager did offer words of praise for Cole Palmer, Chelsea’s breakout talent during the competition:

“This Club World Cup showcased a young man who had a great season — Cole Palmer.”

Still, Mourinho was clear in his admiration for PSG, who captured the UEFA Champions League title a milestone he believes far outweighs a Club World Cup medal. He drew comparisons between PSG’s success and his historic treble-winning Inter Milan side, which lifted the Champions League shortly after Zlatan Ibrahimović’s departure.

“It was a remarkable triumph, especially considering the loss of their best player,” he said, referring to PSG’s campaign following the departure of Kylian Mbappé.

Portuguese stars at PSG earn special mention

Mourinho also highlighted the rise of Portuguese talent at PSG, praising Vitinha, João Neves, and Nuno Mendes, and acknowledging Gonçalo Ramos for his decisive moments despite limited game time.

“I love them both [Vitinha and João Neves], I can’t tell the difference,” Mourinho joked, praising the club’s midfield depth and wing-back dynamism.

He concluded by hoping one of PSG’s Portuguese stars could contend for the Ballon d’Or, although he jested about agent Jorge Mendes campaigning for Lamine Yamal as the rightful winner.