The Portuguese coach, who won the trophy with Inter last year, eliminating Barcelona in the semi-finals, said there are no favorites, but he is optimistic.
He also refuted claims that last week’s Copa del Rey final win would influence the game tomorrow.
“Every game is a different story. It’s the same as if we had not won the final. Cup competitions are always different.
“However we are calm. It’s a Champions League semi-final, and we will not be influenced by what has happened before.”
‘The Special One’ was then asked if the current Barcelona team was the best of all time and he replied: “I don’t know if they are the best, they are a great team, but I don’t know if they are the best.”
Asked who were the favorites heading into the game, Mourinho responded bluntly: “There are no favorites. No result after the game will make us feel secure for the return leg. We are not obsessed, but we want to go all the way.
“There are no favorites, just like in the Schalke – Manchester United game.”
The coach then took a swipe at Pep Guardiola over possible scenarios involving referee Wolfgang Stark during the game.
Just a few days ago Guardiola said Mourinho would have been happy had a Portuguese referee been appointed.
“I don’t want mistakes to go in our favor, but hope both teams are happy after the game,” he added.
“However, it’s not possible for Pep to be happy. The referee must be wrong. Guardiola’s comments see us move into a new era where only a small group of coaches don’t criticise referees.
“This is the first time I see a coach criticising the referee even before a game. When I complain about referees I do it honestly, and if he makes the right calls I will say that without problems.
“We have to play to the maximum. It’s not about the referee,” he concluded.
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Jose Mourinho: Barcelona Are Not The Greatest Team In History