The former Chelsea manager may have scooped the La Liga title last season but after a disastrous league campaign this time around only European glory can salvage his reputation.
Steve McManaman believes 'super-manager' Jose Mourinho's time as the Real Madrid coach is coming to an end - but says the Portuguese will be remembered as a huge success if he can lead the club to a landmark 10th European title.
The Spanish giant takes on Manchester United on Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabeu in the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie against the Premier League leader.
MOURINHO'S REAL MADRID RECORD
PD W D L GS GC WIN%
155 112 24 19 415 136 72
Mourinho is under pressure with his side a massive 16 points behind Barcelona in its quest to retain their La Liga title, but former Real Madrid star McManaman believes Mourinho can leave the Spanish capital in style by delivering 'La Decima'.
"A 10th European title is absolutely huge for the people of Madrid and for Mourinho too," McManaman told Goal.com.
"It would seal his reputation if he can win his third Champions League at three different clubs and confirm him as a success everywhere he’s been.
"It would be a very successful three years if he wins the Copa del Rey in his first season [2011], La Liga in the second [2012] and then the Champions League in the third.
"Mourinho is without doubt one of this new breed of super-managers along with Pep Guardiola.
"I think, whatever happens, he will leave Real Madrid before the start of next season and I’ve seen he’s been linked with Chelsea, City or Paris Saint-Germain so it will be interesting to keep an eye on that."
