Jose Mourinho says he was desperate to serve as stand-in Portugal coach but understands Real Madrid's decision not to free him for the role.
Mourinho was the top choice to take charge of his national side for the forthcoming Euro 2012 qualifiers against Denmark and Portugal after Carlos Queiroz was sacked but eventually admitted defeat due to his club commitments at the Bernabeu.
The former Inter Milan and Chelsea boss did, though, admit he had started to get the taste for the role.
"For two days I felt and I thought like the Portugal coach," he told the Association of Football Coaches.
"I liked it but I have to admit that Real Madrid is a giant institution, which 'bought' me from Inter, who pay me, and who cannot takes risks in front of their members and fans.
"In retrospect, it's an easy decision to understand," said Mourinho, who nevertheless conceded he felt "sadness and frustration" at the missed opportunity to lead his country.
Paulo Bento was handed the reins in Mourinho's absence and the 47-year-old said: "I wish luck to Paulo. Portugal now have a coach and he should be recognised by everyone as our coach."
