Paulo Sousa, currently managing Shabab Al Ahli in Dubai, is enjoying remarkable success in the UAE Pro League. His team is unbeaten in 21 matches, has claimed two trophies, and leads the league with a record-breaking winter campaign. Despite his achievements abroad, Sousa remains deeply connected to Italian football and open to a potential return.
On His Time in Dubai and Italian Football
Sousa reflected on his current role when speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport: “I chose Shabab Al Ahli because I missed competing. My priority now is winning.” However, his passion for Serie A remains strong. “I watch 60-70% of the matches every week,” he revealed. “Italian football has always had an impact on me. The best strategists are in Italy, and I consider it home. If there’s a project for me in June, why not?”
Sousa previously coached Salernitana in 2023, where he achieved a string of positive results before facing challenges that led to his departure. Reflecting on Serie A’s evolution, he noted, “In the last two years, there has been significant growth in terms of speed and vertical play. The game is now more intense with frequent changes of pace.”
Inter vs. Fiorentina: A Clash of Memories
As a former player and coach for both Inter and Fiorentina, Sousa shared his thoughts ahead of their upcoming clash. “Inter has superior quality in every position,” he said. “For me, they are favorites against anyone in Italy. Alongside Milan, they have the best squad.”
Sousa reserved special praise for Inter’s midfield: “It’s at Premier League levels. They read time and space well, can play short or long passes, shoot from distance, and arrive in the box.”
When asked about Simone Inzaghi’s tenure at Inter, Sousa defended him against criticism: “Sometimes I don’t understand Italians. Inzaghi has achieved high levels with Lazio and won trophies while keeping Inter competitive at the top.” He also highlighted Raffaele Palladino’s progress at Monza: “He’s intelligent and has grown significantly as a coach. His team now plays much more vertically.”
Admiration for Fiorentina
Sousa expressed admiration for Fiorentina’s project under Rocco Commisso: “Commisso deserves credit for investing in football. He built the training center and gives coaches the freedom to work.” He singled out Yacine Adli as a standout player: “I coached him at Bordeaux and called him a ‘little Zidane.’ He deserves happiness, and Florence is the perfect place for him.”
On Former Players Federico Chiesa and Josip Ilicic
Sousa addressed Federico Chiesa’s struggles with injuries: “Physical problems affect everyone; it happened to me too. Fortunately, he has a supportive family and will bounce back.” Regarding Josip Ilicic, Sousa shared an uplifting update: “He was recently in Dubai, and I told him what I tell everyone: ‘As long as you can play, do it.’ He has found emotional balance, and I’m thrilled for him.”
A Potential Return to Serie A
If Sousa returns to Italy, fans can expect his signature attacking philosophy: “The foundation of my ideas remains the same—offensive football with width and depth—but everything must adapt to the players.” While focused on his current success in Dubai, Sousa’s love for Italian football makes a return seem more like a question of when rather than if.
