Jose Mourinho could be hired by four Premier League clubs after pick me up call

The sight of José Mourinho lashing out at the referees after being sent into the stands in the Europa League might have triggered a sense of nostalgia among some Premier League fans eager to see him return to the Premier League.

Hours later, the former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham boss – now at Fenerbahce – confirmed his desire to do just that when his contract expires in 2026, or even sooner.

“The best thing I have to do is when I leave Fenerbahce, to go to a club that doesn't play in UEFA competition,” he said. “So a club at the bottom of England that needs a manager in two years, I’m ready to go.”

After hinting he would like to join a smaller club, Mourinho's admission will put several teams on alert. But where would he find his place? Express sport examines four possible destinations.

Western Ham

Where Julen Lopetegui is currently struggling, Mourinho could navigate well.

Both parties need a bit of reinvigoration after a poor start to the season and West Ham supporters already appear to be losing patience with Lopetegui.

Mourinho's family has settled in west London since he first moved to England to take charge of Chelsea. Making the short trip to the east of the capital could please the 61-year-old.

The opportunity to work with Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus, as well as gaining support in the transfer market, could make the Hammers an attractive proposition.

Wolves

The influence Jorge Mendes wields behind the scenes at Molineux is significant when it comes to deciding where Mourinho goes next, as he is represented by Portuguese super agent's company Gestifute.

There are also a number of Portuguese players at the club, with Nelson Semedo, Toti and Jose Sa all belonging to Mendes' agency.

With murmurs of discontent surrounding Gary O'Neil's reign as they sit bottom of the league, the only way out is for Wolves. Additionally, Mourinho's preference for a more disciplined style of play could help them tighten up in defense.

However, the thought of relegation tarnishing his record could convince him to wait until the end of the season to see if Wolves recover.

Crystal Palace

Things are quickly forgotten in football, but fans never forget a moment when a rival manager makes a point of acknowledging their support.

Mourinho has already demonstrated he can wield charm after crediting Palace supporters during their match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, which took place almost 11 years ago. But now that he is considering a return to England, those comments could resurface and shine a positive light on the Eagles.

“[Palace fans are] fantastic, fantastic, fantastic fans. They support their team all the way, they pushed them all the time,” he said. “I really like it when, in away games, the fans are strong with the team.”

Oliver Glasner's position is not under immediate threat, but with one win in eight this season he must start to turn things around. Just like an eagle, Mourinho would soon rush to accept the job if it presented itself.

Newcastle

Mourinho has spent big at Chelsea, Manchester United, Real Madrid and Inter Milan. Even in Rome, the Giallorossi have posted record figures in the transfer market, while his current club Fenerbahce have increased their salary budget to bring in stars like Allan Saint-Maximin and Fred.

The fact is that “The Special One” likes to work for deep-pocketed club presidents. And few could argue that Newcastle's owners, the Saudi-backed Public Investment Fund (PIF), would not be willing to back him in the transfer market if they brought him in.

Of course, Eddie Howe might have something to say about the impressive work he did there. But the opportunity to sign a three-time Premier League champion and Champions League winner may be too good to pass up – even if Newcastle don't exactly meet the 'small club' criteria set out by Mourinho.