José Mourinho Would Actually 'Like' Old Rival Arsenal to Win the League

In the world of sports, rivalries are universal. No matter where you're from and what game you're playing, there's something understandable about disliking the team across town. And, during his time in English soccer, José Mourinho certainly had no problem understanding that reality.

The Portuguese manager, who spent time at Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur, never passed up an opportunity to needle Arsenal and the club's iconic manager, Arsène Wenger. The two men were diametrically opposed, but when it came to on-pitch encounters, Mourinho always seemed to come out on top.

These days, though, things have moved on. Mourinho is managing in Italy, while Wenger has slipped into retirement; Mikel Arteta is now leading Arsenal through a resurgence.

And, in a similar vein, Mourinho would actually like to see the Gunners reach the Premier League summit.

But don't get too excited. That doesn't mean he thinks it will happen.

Mourinho Said Arsenal Have Zero Chance This Season

During his time in the soccer spotlight, Mourinho hasn't been shy about providing a notable quote. And while his recent podcast appearance provided plenty of options, one will stand out for Arsenal supporters.

Near the end of The Obi One Podcast, John Obi Mikel asked his old manager who would win the Premier League this season.

"I would say Man City 51 [percent]," Mourinho began. "And Liverpool 49 [percent]."

Now you might be noticing that Arsenal, who finished second last season and currently sit atop the table, weren't mentioned. When pressed about the Gunners, though, Jose did have a one-word comment when asked about the North London club.

"Nah," he simply said, with Obi Mikel adding that "the rivalry" was still present within Mourinho. The manager denied that sentiment, saying "It's not the rivalry, it isn't the right moment."

And whether he's genuinely turned the page or not, the bench boss does have quite the history with Arsenal and Wenger. The two managers never really saw eye-to-eye, as their tactical and personal styles stood as polar opposites.

Mourinho also infamously called his French counterpart a "voyeur" and a "specialist in failure." The two also clashed on the touchline on one memorable occasion. He also took charge of Manchester United and Tottenham, two other clubs who consider Arsenal a rival.

But, with all of that being said, the Portuguese did say that he'd be in favor of the Gunners winning the league, should they reach the top of the mountain.

"Honestly, rivalry apart, because I can do it. I would like them to win," he said. "I would like a third [club to break City's run of dominance]. Of course, Chelsea is not going to win. It's out of the question so I don't speak about Chelsea.

"Of course, Man. United is not going to win it. I don't speak about Man. United, too. So, it's going to be these three. And out of these three, I would be happy for Arsenal to win it. I'll be really happy to break, a little bit, that thing. But I think[...]51-49. And I say 51-49 because, when the accumulation of matches are coming, Man City has two teams."

When push comes to shove, though, Mourinho's opinion doesn't really change anything. While he knows a great deal about soccer, he's neither involved with the Premier League nor any of the clubs in question. His response, in this case, isn't any more or less valuable than any other pundit's.

And, as any sports fan can tell you, predictions don't help you win trophies.

But, as of now, we'll just have to see if Mourinho's winning ways can translate to mid-season picks.