Mourinho wanted to leave. What could I do?

Moratti reflects on Mourinho's 2010 departure to Real Madrid, saying the manager wanted to leave and he couldn't stop him.

Massimo Moratti, the former Inter Milan president, has recalled José Mourinho's departure to Real Madrid at the end of the 2009-10 season. Speaking to Spanish newspaper As, the 81-year-old Moratti explained that Mourinho was determined to pursue the opportunity at the Bernabéu and there was little he could do to prevent it. "He wanted to leave and he left," Moratti said. "What could I do? His dream was to have an adventure with Madrid."

Moratti praised his relationship with Real Madrid during the transfer, describing it as "exceptional" and "healthy." He also reflected on Mourinho's character and management style, noting that while the Portuguese coach's fundamental traits—his determination to win and strong personality—remain unchanged, football itself has evolved significantly. Moratti believes Mourinho is among the best equipped to manage modern squads and instil a winning mentality, calling him "the best coach I ever had at Inter" and crediting him with achieving the maximum in just two years at the club.