Jose Mourinho targets return to Premier League as he praises English football to the hilt

English football has a special place in the heart of Jose Mourinho, who voiced his desire to return to manage in the Premier League.

“I know that one day I will come back because English football means a lot to myself,’’ said the former Chelsea manager.

Mourinho guided Real Madrid to the La Liga title last year but has encountered problems this season, including disagreements with senior players such as Iker Casillas, and he is now expected to leave the Bernabeu in the summer. Paris St-Germain may offer a new challenge or Mourinho could consider what is available in the Premier League.

His love affair with English football is well known. He was back in England on Sunday, checking on Real’s Champions League opponents, Manchester United, and being surrounded by autograph-hunters.

Mourinho attended a League Managers Association coaching conference at St George’s Park. He has also delivered an impassioned tribute to English football in a message of congratulations to the Football Association on its 150th anniversary.

“To say congratulations to the English FA is to say congratulations to football,’’ said Mourinho. “It’s to say congratulations to everybody that loves football around the world.