During his time at Manchester United, Jose Mourinho faced significant friction with players and often expressed frustration over what he saw as inadequate support from then-chief executive Ed Woodward, especially in the transfer market.
Despite securing the club’s record signing of Paul Pogba for a staggering £89 million, Mourinho’s tenure was marked by several setbacks.
One notable disappointment was the failure to sign Virgil van Dijk, who ultimately chose Liverpool over Manchester United.
Instead of acquiring van Dijk, the club opted to bring in Victor Lindelof from Benfica for £30 million, while also retaining players like Anthony Martial, Scott McTominay, and Marcus Rashford, who remained at the club even after Mourinho’s departure.
In an interview with the Telegraph, Mourinho suggested that keeping certain players had a negative impact on the club’s subsequent struggles, implying that Manchester United had regressed since his time as manager.
Expressing his thoughts, Mourinho said, “There are still a couple of players there I didn’t desire five or six years ago.
I believe they possess qualities that aren’t ideal for a club of this stature. Nonetheless, I fulfilled my obligations there. Time always reveals the truth. I would like to see Manchester United thrive.”
Currently without a managerial role after leaving Roma earlier in the season, Mourinho also criticized Ed Woodward, suggesting that current Ajax manager Erik ten Hag had more support compared to his own experience at Manchester United.
Reflecting on his relationship with Woodward, Mourinho stated, “My personal relationship with Ed Woodward was fine.
However, professionally, it was lacking. I am deeply passionate about football, but Ed comes from a different background. Ten Hag’s time at Manchester United was different from mine.
I didn’t have that level of support or trust, which is why my departure left me with regret, feeling like I was just starting a process.”
While Mourinho did lead Manchester United to a second-place finish in his second season, a notable achievement, the current state of the club, currently seventh in the league, is a stark contrast to those previous heights.
Although he hasn’t ruled out a return to management entirely, Mourinho remains uncertain about his future plans.
Some Chelsea supporters have even expressed support for his potential return to Stamford Bridge, indicating dissatisfaction with current manager Mauricio Pochettino.
This uncertainty highlights the complexities of managerial roles and the constantly evolving nature of football management.