Both worked with football legend Sir Bobby Robson, tasted success with Porto and have had big money jobs at Chelsea.
However, despite the 33-year-old being appointed as Chelsea manager on a three-year contract, he is unlikely to arrive with the same swagger as Mourinho in 2004.
Mourinho told the press: “I’m European champion and I think I’m a special one.”
Despite being dubbed the Mini Special One and Mou Two, Villas-Boas is a modest man humble about his achievements.
Chelsea have agreed a reported 15million euros compensation payment with Porto and a lucrative £4.4million a year salary for Villas-Boas who guided the Portuguese club to this season’s Europa League crown.
The 33-year-old replaces Carlo Ancelotti, who was axed at the end of last season just 12 months after guiding the club to a league and FA Cup double.
A club statement read: “Andre was the outstanding candidate for the job. He is one of the most talented young managers in football today and has already achieved much in a relatively short space of time.
“His ambition, drive and determination matches that of Chelsea and we are confident Andre’s leadership of the team will result in greater successes in major domestic and European competitions.
“Andre will bring his coaching experience back to a club he is already very familiar with, having previously worked here for three years.
“He has always been highly regarded at Chelsea and everyone here looks forward to welcoming him back and working with him.”
