Former Manchester United coach Jose Mourinho has admitted he was interested in signing Egypt and Al Ahly legend Mohamed Aboutrika during his first stint with Chelsea.
The former FC Porto and Inter Milan tactician recently recalled scouting the Egypt legend and was taken back at the quality he possessed.
Mourinho has claimed he tried to lure Aboutrika to Stamford Bridge, but the deal did not transpire as Chelsea had a few qualms with signing the man known as "El Magico" at the age 29 a little more than a decade ago.
"Yes, this is somehow true," Mourinho was quoted as saying by beIN SPORTS.
"From our side, we have some questions regarding the calibre of some players and whether they will adapt or not.
"But, of course, I pretty well know that he (Aboutrika) was very talented and everything was apparent to everyone through his achievements with Al Ahly and Egypt.
"Aboutrika had the advantage of strong physicality and technique, and definitely would have managed to adapt to European football.
"I am sure, if he was active right now, he undoubtedly wouldn't remain in Egypt and would have played in Europe."
Aboutrika called time on his 17-year glittering career in 2014, following stints with Tersana, Al Ahly and Baniyas.
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