Since then, whenever Mourinho "commits an offense," it's always at a critical turning point for the team.
Clearly, Mourinho has become very adept at using red cards to boost his players' morale.
This spring, he once again used the "handcuff gate" incident to successfully replicate the miracle from 5 years ago.
Although there was no red card, Mourinho's handcuff gesture protesting the referee earned him a 3-match ban, yet all of Italy was pondering about Inter Milan's referee issues.
Moreover, it was the life-and-death moment between Inter Milan and Chelsea in the Champions League: the opponent was not only his former employer but also his old adversary in Serie A, Ancelotti.
At such a critical moment, Mourinho successfully transferred the pressure from the media and fans onto his "handcuffs," allowing the players to prepare with ease.
