Former Togo international Emmanuel Adebayor has shed light on the contrasting coaching styles of Arsène Wenger and José Mourinho, offering a glimpse into what made each manager unique during his career. In a candid reflection, Adebayor praised both managers but singled out Mourinho as the most impactful coach he worked under.
“Arsène Wenger will let you do anything you want to do,” Adebayor explained. “You can commit the same mistake three times; Wenger will be looking at you before he will come to tell you that this, what you are doing, I think, is not right.”
In contrast, Mourinho’s approach was more direct and immediate. Adebayor described the Portuguese tactician as someone who left no room for hesitation when addressing mistakes.
“But José Mourinho doesn’t have time; he will tell you straight,” he continued. “If you make a mistake at 10:01 or 10:02, he’s already on your nose, like telling you, ‘Emmanuel, you don’t have to do this; this is bad.’”
Adebayor expressed admiration for Mourinho’s honest and transparent style, highlighting the way he interacted with players as a key strength.
“He gave me a big impression because of the way he treated players; it is beautiful. If he loves you, he will let you know; if he doesn’t, he will let you know. Whatever you are doing well, he will let you know. So he’s an honest person.”
When asked to pick between the two iconic managers, Adebayor didn’t hesitate to give Mourinho the nod.
“For me, I will always choose him as the best manager I worked under,” he concluded.
Adebayor’s remarks underscore the stark differences in managerial philosophies between Wenger, known for his patient and nurturing style, and Mourinho, celebrated for his no-nonsense, results-driven approach. Both managers have left lasting legacies in world football, but for Adebayor, Mourinho’s directness and honesty stood out as unparalleled.
