" I had a tough spell under Mourinho where I was in and out of the team, although I did turn a corner with him at one stage before injuries unfortunately got in my way. He could be a tough person to play for. When you were in favour with him it was great, but when you weren’t you could feel like an outcast. "
- Wayne Bridge

In the given statement, Wayne Bridge reflects on his experiences under José Mourinho's management during his football career. He acknowledges that there were challenging periods where he struggled to secure a regular place in the team. However, he also mentions a positive shift when he found favor with Mourinho for a time, only for injuries to hinder his progress again.

The quote delves deeper into the dynamics of working under demanding managers like Mourinho. Bridge’s statement highlights how such leaders can create an environment where players feel either highly supported or completely marginalized depending on their standing in the manager's eyes. This dichotomy speaks to the broader theme of dependency and vulnerability inherent in high-pressure, performance-driven environments. Players who are favored may experience exceptional growth and success but risk losing that support abruptly if they fall out of favor or face setbacks like injuries.

Wayne Bridge is a former English footballer who had a significant career with several prominent clubs including Chelsea and West Ham United. Known for his defensive capabilities as a left-back, Bridge played in the Premier League from 1997 to 2016. His tenure at Chelsea included two periods where he was managed by José Mourinho, one of the most influential figures in modern football management.