Jose Mourinho has described his sacking by Tottenham as a 'unique' experience in his career as he takes on an English team for the first time since his departure.
The Portuguese was dismissed by Spurs on April 19, 2021, meaning he was not in charge for the Carabao Cup Final against Manchester City six days later – in which caretaker-boss Ryan Mason led the team to defeat.
As he prepared his Roma team to face Leicester at King Power Stadium, Mourinho largely ducked questions about his past in the English game.
However, it is clear the timing of his dismissal by Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy left its mark.
'In my long career with so many things that happened to me for good for bad, that one is quite unique, but I also think Mr Levy is quite a unique person,' said Mourinho.
Roma's major signing during Mourinho's reign was Tammy Abraham, who moved to the Italian capital for £34million from Chelsea last summer.
The England forward has been a huge success, scoring 24 goals in all competitions, prompting suggestions that he could soon return to the Premier League.
'I was born and raised in England,' he said. 'Of course there are many rumours here and there that there are clubs interested but I'm clearly doing something right at Roma if people are interested.
'I have to stay focused, keep doing my thing and I'm happy playing my football. For now, my main focus is beating Leicester.'