Mourinho rejected Lyon

Former Chelsea boss wanted rest not return

Last updated: 29th February 2008

Jose Mourinho

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Jose Mourinho spurned an offer to coach Lyon upon parting company with Chelsea, according to Bernard Lacombe.

Speaking to France Football magazine, Lacombe - advisor to the French champions' president Jean-Michel Aulas - claims Mourinho was approached after leaving the West London club earlier this season.

The news will likely alert, if not perturb, current incumbent Alain Perrin, as the former Portsmouth boss was already installed at Stade de Gerland when Mourinho was sought.

"I know that the president approached him (Mourinho)," said Lacombe.

"But the talks didn't go very far. Mourinho was in need of some rest."

Reports in the same magazine have suggested that Mourinho's reasoning behind his decision to reject Lyon is somewhat contrary to Lacombe's claim.

France Football, under the headline 'No to Lyon, Yes to Barca', are reporting Mourinho has already concurred on a return to Camp Nou for next season.