Watford midfielder Edoardo Bove has told the story of his return to football after the cardiac arrest he suffered in December 2024, also revealing his strong bond with his former coach, José Mourinho.
In an interview with the Daily Mail , Bove revealed that the Portuguese coach was among the first to come to his aid after the serious incident. The midfielder, who had worked with Mourinho at Roma, collapsed on the pitch during Fiorentina’s match against Inter .
“He takes care of every player he has trained. He wrote to me first, but I couldn’t answer anyone, so he contacted my parents. I have an incredible relationship with him. Mourinho is very important to me and my family,” said Bove.
Difficult moments and recovery
The 23-year-old recalled the difficult moments after the incident, stressing that he had no memory of what happened on the pitch.
“The last thing I remember is when I fell to the ground. I woke up in the hospital not knowing what had happened. I thought I had been in an accident. There were very difficult days when everything seemed to be going wrong,” he said.
A new chapter in England
Due to rules in Italy that do not allow players with defibrillators to play, Bove was forced to leave Serie A and continue his career in England.
He found a new opportunity at Watford, where the club has offered him full medical support and conditions for his return to the field.
Since his debut on February 14, Bove has recorded eight appearances and now feels confident with the device that monitors his heart.
“I have a new friend in my body. I have never been disappointed,” he concluded, demonstrating the strength and determination to return to football.
