How did it feel when Roman Abramovich came into the dressing room after losing a Champions League quarter-final in 2011 to Manchester United? Did it undermine you?
It is usual for the owner to come into the dressing room after a game to say hello. But at that moment, after losing that game, everyone was a little bit embarrassed. There was total silence. I tried to break it with a little speech.
Did you deserve better than to be sacked by Chelsea on the final day of the season, straight after the game against Everton at Goodison Park?
No, I knew the situation, and I knew it was coming. I was in the dressing room, but it was no shock, because to be sacked is just part of your job. There is no manager who has never been sacked. OK, maybe Pep Guardiola, who has decided to leave clubs, but he has had only a short career in management so far – just eight years.
Did Chelsea ask you to return to the club last year to replace Jose Mourinho?
No, no. But I would have no problem going back to Chelsea. My experience with Chelsea, and in English football, was fantastic.