Intensely irritating to some, hugely entertaining to others, the outspoken and colourful Jose Mourinho has proven time and again that success is never far from his golden touch.
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From a modest playing career and humble beginnings in management, Mourinho, 50, has become one of the most sought-after signings by club presidents eager for the Portuguese to wave his magic wand and conjure a succession of silverware.
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His managerial record stands the closest scrutiny - a Champions League winner with two clubs and league titles in Portugal, England, Italy and Spain.
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He guided Porto to league and European glory, moulded Chelsea into English champions and Inter Milan into league and European winners.
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At Real, who on Monday announced that Mourinho would leave at the end of a trophyless season in a mutual parting, he ended three years of Barcelona dominance by winning the La Liga title last season.
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But he fell short in his stated desire to win a third personal Champions League trophy and the magical 10th that Real so desperately desired.
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Success on the pitch has earned the adulation of fans, the respect of players and a love-hate relationship with club presidents.
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But underpinning Mourinho's time in managerial hotseats have been clashes with authority, tetchy relationships with rival managers and a disdain for match officials.
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Accused by rivals of being arrogant, Mourinho is never one to keep an opinion to himself.
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Arriving at Chelsea in 2004 to declare "please don't call me arrogant but I'm European champion and I think I'm a special one," the never-shy Mourinho has worn his heart on his sleeve.
Jose Mourinho would suceed in Chelsea. Let him just move over to that club immediately but he should Ronaldo alone for United o