Mourinho turns down Roma approach within hours of Chelsea dismissal

By Italy correspondent Gianluigi Carrozzini

Jose Mourinho has rejected an approach from Roma,

Football Insider 

sources understand. The Serie A club have made contact with Mourinho to ascertain his interest in replacing Rudi Garcia at the Giallorossi. But a Roma source has told

Football Insider 

that Mourinho, who led Inter Milan to the treble in 2010, has turned down the opportunity to manage in the Italian capital. It comes after Mourinho was sacked by Chelsea on Thursday to enter his first break from management for seven years. Roma are fifth in Serie A, just seven points behind leaders Inter Milan.

The Portuguese released a statement on Saturday morning, hours before he attended Brighton's Championship clash against Middlesbrough.

Mourinho made it clear via his agents CAA Sports that he wants to return immediately to management and dos not require an extended period of recuperation.

“He will not be taking a sabbatical, he isn’t tired, he doesn’t need it,” the CAA statement reads. “He is very positive, and is already looking forward.

“Because of his love of football, you will see Jose at football grounds working and supporting friends. He will not be attending any high-profile games because he wants to discourage any speculation about his future.

Jose will remain living in London and hopes he and his family will be given the opportunity to do this privately.”

Mourinho, who has previously stated his intention to stay in the Premier League, is settled with his family at their Belgravia home.

His son Jose Jnr plays for Fulham Under-16s and his wife and daughter are both happy in the capital.

Meanwhile, Chelsea have confirmed that Guus Hiddink has been appointed the club's interim manager until the end of the season.