Bankrolled by Russian owner Roman Abramovich, Mourinho led Chelsea to back-to-back league titles in 2005 and 2006 during his previous tenure with the English Premier League club. However, with the changing financial landscape and Uefa's push for clubs to adhere to Financial Fair Play regulations, Mourinho emphasized the importance of making strategic decisions to ensure the club's long-term success. He stressed the need for closer collaboration with the board on financial matters, as well as a different approach to player recruitment and development. Chelsea's recent signing of Andre Schuerrle for a reported £18 million marked their first acquisition since Mourinho's return, as the club aims to maintain stability and secure qualification for the lucrative Champions League.