Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho was presented with a sprinkler by an Italian journalist during a press conference ahead of the team's Champions League match against Inter Milan. The unusual gift served as a reminder of an iconic celebration from Mourinho's tenure with Inter.
In the 2009-10 season, Mourinho led Inter Milan to a Champions League title. A memorable moment from that campaign occurred after Inter defeated Barcelona in the semi-finals. Following the second leg at the Nou Camp, sprinklers unexpectedly activated on the pitch while Mourinho was celebrating, a scene that has since become legendary in the competition's history. Images from that night show Mourinho celebrating amidst the water.
Mourinho returned to Real Madrid this summer for his second spell with the club, 13 years after his initial departure. The upcoming match against Inter Milan marks his first European game back at his former club.
The journalist, Tancredi Palmeri, presented the sprinkler, wrapped in a blue ribbon, to Mourinho at the conclusion of the press conference. Mourinho appeared amused by the gesture.
Palmeri had reportedly stated earlier that his mission to give Mourinho a gift was "very difficult, almost impossible."
During the 2010 semi-final against Barcelona, Inter secured their place in the final with a defensive masterclass, ultimately defeating Bayern Munich 2-0 to win the title. Reflecting on that match years later, Mourinho explained that the defensive strategy was centered around neutralizing Lionel Messi, describing it as creating a "jail for Messi."