Regular readers of this blog will be familiar with the firm anti-Jose Mourinho approach for several reasons, written about in STATS: More Reasons To Keep Mourinho Away From United, Mourinho Show Continues to name a few.
In summary: 1. Jose Mourinho inherited a great squad at Chelsea (finished 2nd in the league, reached CL semi-finals) yet after spending hundreds of millions on players over several years, left them with a much weaker squad. 2. The football he played with Porto, Chelsea and Inter was dire. Ultra defensive and ultra boring. 3. He had never developed youth. 4. His personality is dreadful. He brings shame to whichever club he is at with his rants. (lying to the world’s media saying he saw Rikjaard enter referee Frisk’s office, before later admitted he never saw such a thing/laying in to young lad Ronaldo over his education and class/claiming that title rivals Roma would pay off their opponents on the last day of the season to fix the title etc.) No class whatsoever. 5. His success has always been with team’s that have their foundation built – Porto finished 2nd by 1 point season before he got the job, Chelsea finished 2nd and reached the semi-finals of Europe, Inter were champions for the previous two seasons. What if United don’t have such a strong foundation when Ferguson finally leaves? 6. He makes his team’s success all about him. Compare the pictures of Inter’s CL win in 2010 to United’s in 2008. Mourinho is at the centre of everything compared to Fergie not even being in sight. 7. Sir Bobby Charlton and Bryan Robson were against his appointment.
Have things changed?
Transfers – Whilst at Chelsea, Mourinho did not do a good enough job in the transfer market. Michael Essien, Ashley Cole and Dider Drogba were his biggest successes, but all of them were obvious transfers who any manager in Europe would have wanted, if they had the money. He didn’t get any bargains and spent a vast amount of money on average or worse players. Khalid Boulharouz (£9m), Shaun Wright-Phillips (£21m), Asier Del Horno (£8m), John Obi Mikel (£16m), Paulo Ferreira (£13.2m). The players he did get at a bargain price were dreadful, like Steve Sidwell, Claudio Pizarro and Tal Ben Haim.
All managers make mistakes when it comes to transfers, Sir Alex included, but it’s been a long time since the dark days of Kleberson (£6.5m) and Djemba-Djemba (£3.5m). The more recent bargains of Evra (£5m), Vidic (£7m), Ji-Sung Park (£4m) etc. put Jose to shame.
Given United’s financial restraints, there’s no way United could afford to blow the money Mourinho did.
However, his transfer record at Inter Milan has painted his abilities to bring in good players at a good price in a better light.
It’s hard to argue with deals like offloading Zlatan Ibrahimovic + £40m for Samuel Eto’o, Wesley Sneijder for £13m, Diego Milito for £20m, Lúcio for £4.5m.
At Real Madrid, a club notorious for throwing money about, he’s secured some more great transfers. Ángel di María for £25m, Pedro León for £8m, Sami Khedira for £12m, Mesut Özil for £13m, Sergio Canales for £4m and David Mateos Ramajo for £300k, which is pretty good going for one summer’s work.
In conclusion, he wasn’t good enough in the transfer market at Chelsea but has gone some way to proving himself in the years since then.
Playing style – At Porto, Chelsea and Inter, the style of football was woeful. Whilst he proved a success at all three clubs, the idea of watching that dross week in week out was pretty unimaginable. We’ve been spoilt in the Fergie years but a club like United shouldn’t have to sacrifice style for success. When you look at the football Roberto Di Matteo has West Brom playing, it’s hard to excuse Mourinho’s preference for dull football at clubs like Chelsea and Inter where he’s had money to spend.
The argument against this, from those in favour of Jose, claimed that he would be expected to play entertaining football at United, that he would have no choice. That’s a fine argument but if Jose had never employed attacking or entertaining tactics, how did anyone know he could be a success this way? Sam Allardyce’s teams play the same, Rafa Benitez’s teams play the same and looking at Mourinho’s managerial experience, his teams played the same too. Managers stick with what they know and Mourinho knew defensive football.
However, with limited reference to Real Madrid, Mourinho is proving that he can change his style and be a success. Of course, we’ll have to wait until the end of the season to see how far it gets him, but on current form, you can’t help but be impressed.
People can argue that it would be hard not to score goals and play well with such a wealth of talent in the team, but he managed to do just that at Chelsea and Inter. Real Madrid, like United, demand style in their play, and Mourinho is meeting that demand.
Real Madrid are currently the only unbeaten team in La Liga, scoring 22 goals in 8 games (an average of 2.75 goals per game) yet still have defensive strength, conceding just 4 goals (an average of 0.5 goals per game).
In Europe, they have won all three games they’ve played, against AC Milan (currently 2nd in Serie A), Ajax and Auxerre, winning 2-0 twice and 1-0.
Youth – Mourinho’s policy always seemed to be to buy established players, at the peak of their career and a wealth of experience under his belt.
This policy has changed since joining Real Madrid, with him opting to buy young players to develop. This is obviously not a Real Madrid way of doing things, so his own preference.
Ángel di María (22), Pedro León (23), Sami Khedira (23), Mesut Özil (22), Sergio Canales (19) and David Mateos Ramajo (23).
Juan Carlos, who has been at the club since he was 16, was given his first team début this season. Like Ferguson at United, Mourinho is using the group stages of the Champions League to introduce players from the youth team.
“It is always good that the coach likes me, I thank him for the opportunity he has given me, and I hope that I can continue,” said Carlos after the game.
Also, with the UEFA rule change insisting a proportion of homegrown players, Mourinho would have no choice but to take our youth policy seriously.
Which things haven’t changed?
Personality – This can’t be reconciled. For me, I don’t like the guy. He is severely lacking in class and is massively self-obsessed. People reckon he comes out with his controversial statements and puts his face in front of the cameras to take pressure off his team but I just don’t buy it. He loves himself and behaves in a way that draws the attention to himself. His behaviour after beating Barcelona in the semis and then Bayern Munich, was his usual ‘look at me’ routine, which I abhor. Was this to deflect pressure off his team? Obviously not. Whilst I think any successful manager deserves praise, he goes out his way to make himself centre of attention and to get people talking about him.
However, if Wayne Rooney has taught us anything, it’s that you don’t have to love everyone at your club. Cristiano Ronaldo taught me a similar lesson a couple of years before. Your most important player might be a total arsehole, he may behave like an idiot off the pitch, he may mess your club about behind the scenes, but their commitment and ability to make your club a success is all important.
The same has to go for the manager in this respect then. It’s not as if Sir Alex is overwhelmingly popular and always behaves in a way that makes us proud.
Mourinho will always be a dickhead, but he may well be our dickhead, and whilst I wouldn’t enjoy seeing him bring our club in to disrepute, it would be fairly amusing to watch him rub all our rivals up the wrong way.
You would also imagine that under the watchful eye of Sir Alex, who will no doubt go on to have some role within the club, his more outrageous remarks would be curbed.
Successful foundation – Real Madrid are the fourth major club Mourinho has taken charge of which already were in a brilliant position. They finished last season with an incredible 96 points, which would have been enough to win any other season comfortably and have one of the best squads in world football.
When Sir Alex retires, we may not be in as good shape as Real Madrid, Inter, Chelsea and Porto were when Mourinho got the job. If we aren’t and he doesn’t have the money to spend, he will be put in to a situation where he is totally unproven. But that is ifs and buts and not a strong enough argument to keep him out of the club.
Conclusion
I’d still prefer someone like Pep Guardiola, who has again been linked with the job in the past week, who has been a great success, employs beautiful football, and is so classy, but I’m happy to concede that Mourinho replacing Ferguson isn’t the disaster I’ve always claimed it would be.
This is obviously a premature reaction, given that we’re only a few weeks in to the season, however in just a short space of time at Real Madrid Mourinho has already started to right the wrongs of his career which I believed made him ill qualified for the United job.
The fact that he is so desperate for the United job obviously adds weight in Mourinho’s favour. For him to recognise what a massive club we are and to have a clause written in to his Real Madrid contract to release him purely to become manager of our club certainly makes it easier to approve his arrival at United.
Aside from all his strengths and failings mentioned above, the overriding and undeniable factor is his ability to make his players believe in themselves. I wouldn’t want a team of players with an attitude like John Terry, who Mourinho enabled to believe in himself a little too much, but to have a team of players who are always looking to be successful, always want to win and always believe in their ability to do that. Sir Alex has created this culture at United and there probably isn’t a better man in the world to continue that on.
I’m not great at changing my mind and even worse at publicly admitting that I’ve changed my mind but his performance at Real Madrid, answering the questions that have been asked of him on this blog, meant the U-Turn in thought was unavoidable. My apologies to the staunch anti-Mourinho brigade who I’ve abandoned…
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Pretty positive Moratti controlled all the transfers the year Ibra was sold and Sneijdar was bought. JM didn’t have much of a say in those dealings.
Mourinho had a say the year before when Inter brought in the great Sully Muntari.
Even more reasons showing why Mourhino shouldn’t be allowed near United.
FERGIE > ANYONE
some good points but i think guardialo is too unexperienced yet
Redsmoke – Inter tried to sign Muntari in 2007 before Jose even got the job.
But with the players we have would it be possible to play defensive football?
I think he’ll be a massive success at united if he further improves his attitude a bit
I agree that in a few years we may not be in a position to be picky, so Mourinho, who has a habit of winning, would be fine by me.
Scott –
you’re right my fault.
Nice article Scott and fair points.
But Fergie just said that the manager who replaces him needs plenty of experience. I’m not sure Pep Guardiola has that yet.
Mourinho has experience from top level clubs in different countries. I too share your concerns over his spending since our club can’t cope with a spending spree like he’s used to get. But I do think he could be very successful for us. He knows the English league. I’m sure he’ll be a bit more classy with Sir Alex and Sir Bobby watching over him. He’s already starting to sound like an ambassador for the club in his interviews, saying all the right things – trying to get the job. I do reckon the 162m pounds we got in our bank account at the moment are reserved partly for our next manager. That’s why that money hasn’t been used yet to service the debt.
The times they are A-changin’
if he becomes a part of our club then ill like him, until then no thanks
in honesty, since Jose went to Madrid he hasn’t shamed the club with any of his “famous” rants yet … but who knows in future?
anyhow, we shall observe till the end of Fergie’s excellent management career at United before ever thinking of a replacement in Mourinho or Guardiola or whoever …
“a club like United shouldn’t have to sacrifice style for success”
no one disagrees with this?
tbh for the neutrals manchester united has lost alot in terms attractive football these last 2 years..
I cant imagine how mourinho would make it that much worse..
To manage Man Utd you need a big personality. Some people may say Jose’s got too much personality but when you think of how the next boss of United will have their every decision, their every achievement or failure referred to Sir Alex then you have to think to yourself the man to take the reins at Old Trafford has to be pretty sure of himself to stand the constant comparison. A lot of managers even good managers wouldn’t be able to handle it but Jose definately would and if he can get us playing like he’s got Real Madrid playing now then I’d have no qualms with him becoming the next Man Utd manager.
Welcome aboard Scott. So he is no longer TNSSO.
I think he did well at Chelsea and the team they have today owes a lot to him. The reason why Chelsea went backwards after 2006 imo was that Abramovich pretty much forced Shevchenko onto him and had him lose some good squad players. It was a blessing for us because the 06-07 team won the league, but if you ask Mourinho, I don’t think he will ever admit he wanted Shevchenko. He had to lose players like Gallas, Duff and Gudjohnsen as a result.
Anyway, it’s not 100% guaranteed that it will be Mourinho. Things in football change all the time.
He has won as many Champions Leagues as Sir Alex Ferguson.
He has won the domestic league everywhere he has gone. They’re top of La Liga as well now!
He realised Inter’s dream of European glory.
He is the only man to ever seriously challenge Ferguson.
When was the last time he lost a home game?
Mutual respect with Fergie. Calls SAF ‘The Boss’.
He believes in himself, he thinks he is the best, and would not shy away from the biggest management job in world football, because he thinks that’s where he should be.
He will stay for good. Who’s he gonna leave us for next? Bundesliga? Ligue 1? Don’t make me laugh
Basically, it is his destiny to replace Sir Alex, because he IS the best out there. Results don’t lie. We aren’t exactly playing vintage ‘United style’ football atm are we now? His ‘boring football’ isn’t exactly a downgrade from our current gameplay is it? The Anti-Mourinho brigade fail to realise the importance of winning games, and that sometimes style points don’t win you the trophies and silverware that the artists of Arsenal will never get.
One thing that is overlooked in this argument is the fact that Mourinho never stays around for too long, a couple of years and he gets itchy feet.
Whilst the achievements of SAF in staying around for approaching a quarter of a century are sadly never going to be repeated in the modern game, I think employing someone with a proven track record for moving on the minute a trophy has been won or things aren’t working out exactly as planned is very short termist.
Fergie is building the foundations of what I believe will be another great squad, and whilst you have referenced the fact that Mourinho is going for youth at Real, does he genuinely care for what he leaves behind the way Fergie does?
Interesting aboutr the release clause though, didn’t know that… is that confirmed? If it is though, again doesn’t say much about his loyalty or dedication to the cause I would argue.
Fuck me. So he should do well at Real the fucking money those cunts have spent. I do however hope he beats Barca to La Liga which I am confident he will .
@Moscow is my heaven
Cantona went through a lot of teams too before settling down at United. The same could happen with Mourinho. But lets be realistic. No matter who replaces Fergie, they won’t be here for 10, let alone 20 years. It doesn’t work like that anymore. We will need someone to keep the club succesful while another succesor(Ole? Giggs?) gets more experienced…
The man has far too much gob for my liking and as mentioned Sir Alex could continue for a long time yet and lets all hope he does because we will never have another manager like him. Gobshite will be in and straight out as soon as things are not going his way if past events are anything to go by. I do hate all this speculation regarding our next manager, lets appreciate the genius we still have.
Off topic, just watched FIFA WC 2006 match between England and Portugal, and I couldn’t help but think to myself, what a great, phenomenal player we could have had in Owen Hargreaves. He was the best all-round player, man of the match, no matter that Portugal won it. But, we’ll have another one, we’ll find one just like him, as good as him or even better, for sure !!! VIVA MANCHESTER UNITED !!!
Moscow – He shouldn’t have won as many Champions Leagues as Fergie though should he. Porto should NEVER have got through. I can apprecuiate he is a great manager but sorry I just do not like him. I also have this image in my swede whenever the Chav;s scored he used to sit there smug with the cunt Steve Clark and do that arrogant hand shake. No Class.
Shankhill – Spot on. Heard that cunt Paddy Barclay giving it large this aft. Fuck off Patrick.
Just one thing, Scott. Sergio Canales signed with Madrid on a pre-contract the summer before Mourinho joined them, so he isn’t a Mourinho signing.
So Scott he has ONLY spent 62 million thus far. Yeah peanuts fella.
Agree as well on his personality, not for me.
For some reason a lot of “neutrals” seem to like his antics and find him entertaining, but you can bet your bottom dollar if he carried on like that whilst managing us he’d get slaughtered by the same people.
We’re never gonna win popularity contests (and should worry if we do as it would mean we weren’t winning anything!) but I would personally rather have a manager who I respected as a person.
Fergie makes the odd whinge that is sometimes hard to defend, but part of that is a bit of kiddology – I don’t think the same can be said for Jose.
I can’t make my mind up on him, he’ll bring sustained success for sure, he’ll grind out wins but they won’t be memorable one’s i can assure you, i just don’t know if we can rely on him to keep dismantling an under performing side and then building a great one like fergie does every couple of years, will he ditch us in the future in favour of a supposed “romantic” return to managing portugal and put us in a very bad state?
alot of legends associated with the club (e.g sir bobby e.t.c) don’t approve of him, he really isn’t a manager made for united but i suppose if we want sustained winning at the club, he’d be ideal manager but we can’t deny the fact he needs loads of money to get the job done, his ability to work under a tight budget and develop isn’t severely tested yet so i’m not sure with him, if it was me i’d like ole to get the job, i know he is inexperienced but he’ll be surrounded by experienced one’s and ex players like neville, ryan giggs even paul scholes, this guys bleed red (well all humans do but you get my drift), i’d prefer an up and coming young manager but not sure sir alex feels that’s right for the club when he departs.
Great article, Scott.
Now that you mentioned the troubles at Nou Camp, I’d rather get Guardiola! But hey, Mourinho is not the worst of choices. Each time he speaks about United and Sir Alex, you can always feel a burning desire inside of him to become top man at Old Trafford.
That shows heart!
Moscow
cracking post mate. Can understand people dont like him but some of the excuses given are ridiculous. Personally, like him a lot. In many ways he is like fergie
King Eric >. I think the point in the main article about what’s doing at Real isn’t that they’re successful, it’s that they are (apparently) playing attacking football. The biggest negative about Mourinho, for me, has always been that ultra-defensive style. Most of us don’t want that our club playing that type of football, and were skeptical that Mourinho could change from that. But it now appears that he can, and in fact, is changing. (I haven’t seen enough of Real this year to say, but I’ll take Scott’s word for it.)
Tomo and others make the point that he doesn’t hang around long, and we want someone who will stay. But I think Mourinho might have stayed at Chelski but for falling out with Abramovich. In any event, as Scott points out, he clearly covets our club above all others; and as Moscow-in-my-heart says, where the hell would he go after us? Nah, for him, this would be the pinnacle.
The other comment that really caught my was Scott’s: “He may be a dickhead, but he’ll be our dickhead.” Right. Exactly.
canales was signed long before mourinho.
keep the wanker away from our club (unless he brings ronnie back with him)
King Eric
There is nothing more I want to see in that glorified Scottish league than the fall of Barcelona. Glad you share my view that the over-hyped fairies should fall right back to earth on their ‘More than a club’ asses. Arrogant cunts, definitely a lesser evil than the fascists.
As for Mourinho, how can you NOT love his attitude?
Fergie ain’t a saint either you know, but he’s always been our hero.
AIG
Thanks pal. TSO is the top dog:
‘If I wanted to have an easy job… I would have stayed at Porto… beautiful blue chair, the UEfA Champions League trophy, God, and after God, me.’
I actually find it hard to picture Bobby Charlton (who has previously said that he doesn’t think Mourinho is the ‘right’ man to replace Fergie), David Gill and the Glazers going down the route of having to pay more in salary for the cunt that is Mourinho, someone who has no reputation for signing and developing youth (by this I mean unknown talents, i.e. Hernandez for example) and someone with a track record of never managing a club for more than 3 seasons. The big salary he will ask for, his track record of having successful but short stints with clubs and on top of that, his inflated ego – these may be enough to discourage the board into bringing him here.. I know I am clutching at straws, lol. It’s because I hate the cunt, but there’s no denying that he is the best one for the job.. it’s looking extremely likely he will be our next manager. Fergie will no doubt have a huge say in this, and I have to admit, whenever he speaks of Mourinho, he seems to be talking about the next manager of Utd.
And considering Fergie has written off the possibilty of a young manager replacing him, well, Moyes/Blanc are certainly out of the frame for good now – and it’s a shame. I have always spoken of my wish to see Moyes as manager of Utd. Unlike Mourinho he is likely to offer long term stability and loyalty. He did very well at Everton with little money, unearths brilliant talents and develops them ala Fergie, and it is these qualities in him that make me think he can become a great manager for us.. but unlike Mourinho, he doesn’t have experience at the top flight, trohpies to boast off, nor a personality strong enough to fit the profile of being a Utd manager. And these are what matter in the end.
King Eric – I was not looking at the total price of the players he’s brought in, but them individually. The point I made earlier was that he never signed bargains but now, at Real Madrid, he has signed several bargains.
scott, y do u do a rooney on the anti-Mourinho brigade? *sigh*….
mourinho to replace Fergie? yucks…..
Buying the likes of Di Maria for 25M doesn’t qualify as a youth policy! And Ozil (one of the stars of the WC) only had a year left on his contract and wanted to go to RM. That was a no brainer. Finding Chicharito is what you call good work in the transfer market.
JM is very good at taking a very good team and polishing it to make it better. He has a personality to get top players working for him and he knows how to win. But to me he has no youth policy. Can you imagine him working with Raphael, Cleverly, Macheda etc, choosing when to loan them and when to play them? Would he have bought Smalling? I think this is why Guardiola has been mentioned recently. He’s won lots, used to working with class players and, importantly, knows all about youth development, having come through Barcelona’s youth system himself.
Patrick Barclay of The Times also changed his opinion not long ago. His main anti-Mourinho at United point was his defensive football, but it’s pretty hard to hold that against the man now.
seems like nobody gives Ole a chance now. i know the risk appears very big, but it seems like loyalty doesn’t pay nowadays. probably, it’s unfair of me to be so disgusted with rooney behaviour. kinda of sad for Ole that he didnt take up the Molde job. Fergie has make it clear now he wanted somebody experience to take over his position. fans, at least from
this great blog, are drooling for Pep & mourinho. u are quickly being forgotten Ole….
King eric
better to spend 60 million on 4 good players than on a player who is injured half the time and past his best (Kaka)
Get him in & we will love his attitude. He has never praised any club the way he praises manutd not even madrid.
Why dosent Fergie give ole the job?. Common sense mate. SAF wants ole to do well but knows he will take time. Dosent want to put the pressure on him.The person who suceeds Mourinho will be a united legend. Might very well be Ole.
next manager has to have thick skin to deal with all the trials and tribulations of managing the largest franchise in the world. I am not crazy about mourinho, but then again, who could deal with all the pressure of the united job?
guardiola does not seem to me as someone who can deal with the pressure of the english media since he has not managed here before.
if anything, jose is a winning coach and provides more entertainment than television:)
The head position at United will always be a touchy subject. Especially since we’ve been spoiled by the God on Earth in SAF. Over 20 years at the helm, and he’s as greedy as ever. But there is a good point in saying that no matter who is appointed next mgr, he is going to be compared to SAF.
I’ve had this conversation before with a friend of mine, and he’s never really liked Mourinho. I look at his track record and let it speak for itself. Yea, he can be a bit pretentious, but given the age of the “modern day footballer” you kind of have to be smug. I think the tell all will be his time at Madrid. And thusfar, he has yet to disappoint. And guys, HE’S YOUNG! 47, 21 years SAF’s junior. SAF took over United in ’86 at the pre-ripe age of 44. Given the amount of success Mourinho has had by his age, there can actually be a comparison between the two.
There is no way to say that he’ll be just as great as SAF, that is a fucking long shot if I’ve ever seen one. But why not allow him to give it a go?
Pep Guardiola should Never be the United manager. He is comfortable at Barca because he is a legend,thats why the players like him,respect him. He also feels at home there. Things will be very different at United if he comes here. Plus he knows the Barca youth players having managed them before.Not the most difficult job managing a team that has 5-6 best players in the world,no?
You say you’d prefer Pep, but Pep was GIVEN a huge club with huge players just like Jose. Pep also doesn’t have anywhere near as much experience that is required to be United’s manager. We also don’t know what kind of signings and player nurturing he would bring since he doesn’t even have complete control of Barca the way Fergie has control of United, although Ibra was a flop at Barca last year. His Barca plays amazing football, but then again, they’ve always played that way and he was a Barca player in his playing days, their style will never change. Basically, you can say as many bad things, if not more, about Pep as you can about Jose….except class, lol, Pep has much more class. I’m not discouraging the signing of either manager, as I can’t think of anyone better to replace Fergie, this is just comparing the 2 prospects.
Guardiola won’t leave Barca. Not unless he’s forced out, either by politics or by their impending financial implosion. And even if he did, I think his style of football is, in some ways, worse than Mourinho’s. I admire some aspects of it, especially their terrier-like pressing to get the ball back, but all that endless passing makes me dizzy. Like watching Arsenal, only better at it. Phui!
I’m a little amused by a certain ambiguity in our fan base. I suppose it’s to be expected, when there are so many of us. But half time we get people coming on here bemoaning the fact that we don’t spend enough to buy established stars, the other half, we get people coming on here bemoaning that we might be thinking about a manager who only spends big and doesn’t develop youth!
But the way I see it, we have always done a bit of both: brought people through, but also augmented the team with a few more established players too. I don’t see why Mourinho wouldn’t fit in with that.
@AIG
u are putting it too nicely the whole senerio. apparently, fergie doesnt think Ole is up to it now. well, as much as my personal perference for Ole, fergie is probably right. then i see no reason for Ole to remain in United. he should put his pirioty now on his own pocket & career juz like rooney. & no fans should blame him & question his loyalty when è next managerial post becomes available elsewhere.
@ Scott
I was thinking of writing a couple of months ago that this was Jose’s audition for the United job. Here he’d have to play attractive football, he wouldn’t be bigger than the club etc. But I decided against it, I regret that now.
You’ve said it perfectly, Jose is changing opinions. Its a long way to go but while 6 months ago I was 100% anti-Jose, i am now changing my mind.
What adds to it is the fact that, as you said, I’ve fallen out of love with Rooney. But I’ve realised I don’t need to love the players to love the club and as hard as it is to say, when Ferguson leaves its likely I won’t love whoever is chosen to replace him, so we might as well get the best.
He’s the only man for the job and I’ll be gutted if he doesn’t get it. Also the notion that he only played boring dour football at Chelsea and Inter is utter bullshit.
@DEVILisRED
that will help ole.maybe a few years managing a club side as the manager. Will give him experience and he can take over later. He was offered the Molde job a few weeks ago but rejected it. The pressure and attention on SAF’S sucessor will be enormous. Wont be fair to subject Ole to it given his experience
I think that if Mourinho can play the football Real Madrid are playing here, he’d be a great manager. However he wouldn’t be my first choice. First of all, he is always looking for new challenges and isn’t really a long-term prospect. Plus, I’m yet to be convinced that he can bring youth players through.
Everything Ole is doing atm mirrors what Guardiola did at Barca before he got the job there, and he deserves a chance. Glazers won’t give him one though, because he is a patron of MUST.
Ole could be Jose’s assistant with the intention of taking over from him…
Forget about Mourinho. I want the FSW.
Scott: We all knew before today that you didn’t like him and you’re fully entitled to your opinion that he’s not for you as the next United manager. But, your constant talk in trying to dismiss his skills a as a manager is ridiculous. Finding excuses and clutching at straws to try and find holes in his over whelming success is quite sad.
Here’s a quote from Mourinho, in regards to Real’s pursuit of Belgian teenager Romelu Lukaku, who many say is much in the Drogba mode and hugely talented:
‘It is true we wanted Romelu, but he has a very clever dad,” said Mourinho. “He wants Romelu to stay at Anderlecht for one more year. I wish all dads were like this.”
You know, that doesn’t come across as the ravings of a self-inflated, egotistical, arrogant ass hole. To me, that last sentence shows genuine concern about the tendency to throw too much temptation, too soon, at kids who are too young to handle it properly.
At the same time, it’s also not the statement of someone who had no interest in youth players and only wants to spend big on established stars. Because if that were the case, he wouldn’t be chasing this guy (only 17) in the first place.
Sorry. I jumpred the gun there. Did not read the whole article. My apologies.
I’d rather United stuck with the template that was used to bring Fergie to the club all those years ago.A gritty manager fighting and winning against the established big clubs with a lesser club and being successful a particular type of man and that rules out Mourinho in my view
The last time we were in this situation (after Sir Matt), we brought in the reserve coach and ex-player Wilf McGuinness. Wilf was forever in Sir Matt’s shadow and eventually (well a year a half later), Busby was back in the dugout and McGuinness returned to the reserve team. Another manager soon followed and four years later we were relegated.
Now the main lesson to learn is that after an absolute god of a coach like Sir Matt or Fergie, the next guy in has to have the self-belief to take on the mantle. You don’t want someone constantly looking upstairs and wilting under the pressure. This is one of the main reasons that I think Mourinho fits the bill – he fkin loves himself! But he’s always been respectful with Fergie and doesn’t miss a chance to pay us a compliment. He’s incredibly successful, has the respect and love of his players and, finally, has started to play the kind of football we appreciate.
In all honesty, I think he has always seen the United job as his end point. He’ll do it for a few years (we’re never gona get another Fergie….not in this day and age) and then he’ll pack it in to go manage Portugal for a few years then call it a day.
By that time that happens, one of the old boys should hopefully be ready (Brucey, Larry White, Ole) or another contender will have emerged.
The reality, as we all know is going to be much more complicated than that!
Costas
Sign him up Fergie sign him up!
I hate him. I don’t think he qualifies as a kind of “long term” prospect. He will be a massive failure at imbibing the right culture and values into our players, and trying to settle for something less by referring to Rooney and Ronaldo’s attitude is a poor attempt from you, Scott. We still have so many players who possess the right attitude and the right values.
No doubt he will get us trophies. But at what cost? Compromise on our belief system?
At best, we should hire him for a year or two like Chelsea did Hiddink. Maybe while we wait for another manager to be available. But as a long term manager, I don’t think so.
And I doubt if he would stay here himself. Judging by his values, he’d jump ship the moment we go wrong somewhere.
You say he inherited great teams but none of them were champions except Inter who were champions by default and then because the competition had been eliminated. Porto and Inter were nowhere close to Champions League winners. Gotta say, i like the guy as well. Always sticks up for his players.
Unitedfanatic
Who would he leave us for? Who else is left?
Hi Scott,
I respect you being man enough to say you’ve changed your opinion based on the facts that you perceive, but as you went out of your way to comment on my blog, I would like to take the chance to return the favour.
1) The point on transfers has been overplayed. Unlike Ferguson, Mourinho has not been COMPLETELY in charge of transfers at Chelsea, Inter or Madrid, but the point is that they big-name players or rising stars want to play for him.
Deals for Canales and Pedro Leon had already been in place before Mourinho joined.
As an aside, Carvalho was also one of his big hits at Chelsea.
2) It would appear that you are basing your observations on playing style on CL matches. Mourinho’s teams can turn on the style when he gives them license to do so. In the CL he was just being pragmatic. As was Fergie vs Barca in 07/08.
With Duff and Robben at Chelsea, it also wasn’t always boring stuff. Chelsea became unbearable to watch midway through the 2006/07 season.
3) Youth – what youth was there at Chelsea?
At Inter, he didn’t hesitate to play Davide Santon against United. Mou does what he can with the personnel he has.
Scott, It’s nice that you’ve seen the light and I welcome you to the club.
But, I and other United fans have been saying it for a while now: Jose Mourinho might not be perfect or ideal, but he is THE best candidate in European football to take over as manager from Sir Alex.
He’s tactically more astute than Sir Alex. He’s team line-ups and subs are usually spot on.
He has the personality and experience to manage big stars AND the media.
Rio has said he would want Mourinho to take over and it’s probable that many of his team mates feel the same way.
He would attract big name players.
At 47, he could manage United for quite a while before becoming Portugal’s National manager.
I’m not convinced by all this chatter that Mourinho shouldn’t get the job because he wouldn’t hang around for more than a few years. Doesn’t mean squat. Look at this way: let’s say he takes from SAF at the end of the next season (18 months from now), after two years at Real. And let’s assume he wins la liga in at least one of those years (not far-fetched at all). That means he would come to us, having won domestic league championships in four countries, including the three major ones (England, Italy and Spain; plus Portugal), two Champions League titles, and the “Treble” twice. (And who knows, he might even win the CL again with Real in the next two years too.)
So what’s left? What does managing United offer him that he can’t get anywhere else?
Well here’s one thing it would give him, a truly unique opportunity that no other club can come even remotely close to offering: the opportunity to build and manage the second great managerial dynasty of our times, second only to Ferguson himself.
Not just the opportunity to build a dynasty (which, in theory, he could do anywhere), but the opportunity to do it HERE as Ferguson’s successor. Because right now, no-one thinks that it is possible.
And don’t think the ego in Mourinho doesn’t see this, because I am sure he does: he knows what SAF has achieved (not just in titles, but in everything — and especially in the longevity of his success). He knows what means to our club. He knows (freely admits!) Manchester United is the greatest club on earth, and he knows why, how and who made it so.
And most of all, he must surely know that everyone but everyone — fans, press, players, and other managers alike — is convinced that (a) SAF cannot be replaced, even in the short term; and (b) that Ferguson’s achievements over his 24+ years with us will never again be emulated.
The opportunity to prove them all wrong is a hell of a carrot to an ego as large as Mourinho’s. Because if he could do that — not only succeed SAF to manage the world’s greatest sports club, not only ensure that it immediately remains successful, not only win more PL and CL titles … but to keep on doing it for another 15 or 25 years, just like Fergie, building and re-building champion team after champion team — that would be one achievement which ensures his name is forever etched in history.
And no other club can offer him that, simply because no other club has ever had a managerial dynasty like Ferguson’s. That’s why he’ll come, and that’s why he’ll stay.
@Moscow is my heaven:
Who knows? He left Inter for real despite the treble of league, cup and european cup due to the differences with the club higher ups as well as the prospect of Real. What if his whims attract him to Barcelona next? Or back to Chelsea??
The one thing he has demonstrated is that though he is ambitious, you cannot be sure he will stay with you.
He never fails to create differences, whether its the media, or by massively disrespecting the other teams, etc. No way he can even come near United with that kind of attitude, because that would invariably create sparks between him and United
@Ian, spot on about Di Maria and Ozil not qualifiying as youth policy. It’s foolish to suggest so, actually. As you put it, I wouldn’t call these signings ‘good work in the transfer market’ – this is where Evra and Vidic jump to mind. Relatively unknown players who proved to be bargains, brilliant signings, players that Fergie saw great potential in – just like he always did – and has been proved right. Not overhyped (in Di Maria’s case) or hot prospects (Ozil) – I will use the cliche, we don’t sign stars, we make them.
@StatesideAussie, regarding your ‘where would he go after us’ question, Mourinho has hinted he would like to manage the portugal national team someday. If he becomes successful with us and wins all there is to be won, what else can he do other than set his aims on winning a WC/Euros to pile up more honors on his list of achievements? I can see him jumping ship again, although this time it would be to take up the job of a national team rather than another club. He won’t end his career at a club.
Gary- You must feel like an ass lol.
I am for Maureen…utd will demand a great personailty and someone of stature. All good and well saying ex legends or moyes etc.
This managerial change will be the biggest most seminal in the history of football. Someone with balls will have to follow SAF. The rest will crumble under the pressure and the gas cooker that is utd.
Biggest job…requires the biggest and best man after SAF. No contest for me
Maureen has the capabilities to ride that
PS. Moscow yep he’s managed the biggest and best club in portugal, same in italy, now same in spain. The biggest and best club in england left. Cant see him completing the set and managing Bayern. But after UTD…….he does want to finally crack the portugese national job before he ends his managerial career.
although i agree guardiola is a far more classy guy than mourinho, you cannot deny mourinho’s cunning and ability to win, which he pproved at inter last year. very excited for el classico to see how their first matchup goes. that said, id have a hard time seeing united play as “beautifull” football as barca do now, and I think guardiola’s tactics may not be as suited for the physicality and pace of the epl. A fusion of guardiola’s class/attacking style with mourinho’s defensive tactics would be ideal for me
@ogee:
“He has never praised any club the way he praises manutd not even madrid.”
Not particularly true. Back in September he said:
“Becoming coach of Real Madrid is like reaching the moon. It is the most important club in the world. It means I’ve made it to the pinnacle”.
Yes, I am nit picking, but there you go.
Oh dear, the anti Mourinho brigade gave lost their leader. Congrats STR, it takes a big man to change his mind like that, still think there’ll be dissenting voices though.
Mourinho is just 47 and has atleast 12-15 years in him so he has time on his side and will be in no hurry to manage Portugal. Will have a good 6-8 year United career atleast
Fergie himself said on the weekend ‘ what you have to deal with on a a daily basis at utd is huge, to handle the whole aspect of manchester united, you cannot have a young manager taking the reigns, the next manager of this club will have to have alot of experience on how to deal with things’
Our ex legends and moyes etc dealt with big names, personailites, egos, big transfers, title races, european clge races and titles, how to deal with such a huge club in terms of media attention, the flak, etc etc etc etc etc = AN EMPHATIC NO
Maureen it will be
*have*
UnitedFanatic … are uou serious? If Mourinho came here, he would leave is for … Barca? They hate each other, mate. Well, Mourinho hates them, anyway. To them, he was always just “the translator”, not even a real coach. He has never forgiven them for that. Nah, he won’t go there. Not before Hell freezes over, anyway.
As for attitude, yeah, I see what you mean. After all, Fergie’s been a model of politeness and respect for so long, hasn’t he? Never yelled or kicked a boot at a player, much less a famous one. Never refused to speak to the press — always had his door open for them, hasn’t he. Never needled an opposing manager — just ask Rafa, or Arsene, they’ll tell you what a great mate Fergie is, how understanding and respectful he is…
Sparks between a manager and his club? Whoever heard of such a thing? Far as I’m aware, the only serious sparks that Mourinho “caused” with “his club” were at Chelsea between him and Abramovich, and at Inter with their established club elite (I don’t mean the team, but the club itself). As for the players, most of those who have played with him love the guy.
Anyway, since when did it become a bad thing for a manager to stand up to an owner? I would have thought, in our current situation, that might be a quality to be admired, not scorned…
@Fze123:
Spot on mate. He definitely isn’t the long term successor to SAF. He’ll just win stuff with us for some time and then jump to Portugal national team.
Also, Scott, the clause in his Real Madrid contract need not be taken positively. When you compare Rooney and Ronaldo’s attitude to indicate we don’t need to set high expectations, I think the same goes here. I see it just as a means to flatter us. Nothing more. He never had any loyalty for anyone and HE WOULD MOVE ON away from United whenever he wanted to.
Er he cant go to Madrid and not praise the club. Has to say good things about those clubs too. The thing is, every press conference he does he does have something good to say about SAF and United.
RedForceRising –
He spent hundreds of millions. None of that was on young players to develop, so your argument there is weak.
Duff and Robben he sold off, and Gudjohnsen. He got rid of the creative players at Chelsea and replaced them with defensiveminded central midfielders.
You’re not psychic, therefore you couldn’t predict the changes that would come in Mourinho. So, thanks for your patronising post, but my opinion on Mourinho is based on the things he’s done over the past couple of months. Before he proved that 1. he could play attractive football and mould himself to the expectations of the club 2. he was interested in buying/bringing through young players, then he was 100% not the right man for the job. Those things have changed, therefore my opinion has too.
@keanogoeshard … “A fusion of guardiola’s class/attacking style with mourinho’s defensive tactics would be ideal for me”.
Me too. But if I understand
what some are saying, that’s exactly what Mourinho is now doing at Real: very attacking, lots of goals, but still sound defensively. Sounds like a winning formula to me…
Guardiola has a specific footballing philosophy that works best with the current players he has. Unless a crop of talents in the mould of Xavi and Iniesta emerge from our ranks in the next few years, then I don’t see how Pep can build a different great team, or if he is brave enough to change his philosophy completely in accordance to the players he has. As the Inter-Barca game showed last season Pep tactically is quite vulnerable. Tbf he is a young manager though, but anyway, I can’t seem him leaving Barca – I reckon he’ll stay there for life.
King Eric – I agree he’s annoying, but wouldn’t nice to take something from Madrid for a change? Instead of those fuckers taking our players and staff etc.
@AIG, it was a tongue-in-cheek reply..
@Stateside Aussie:
Barcelona was partially an example to indicate a successful team. Isn’t that what he has always done since Porto? Move on to the prospect of a successful team, although, I must admit he likes taking challenges.
And by attitude, lets not kid ourselves by pointing out Fergie’s antics to compare with Mourinho’s attitude. I mean real attitude, the kind which you pass on to your players. The values and the culture that are hereditary at United. Mourinho is, by all means, a cripple at that. Whether he changes his attitude, like Scott suggests, or not that is just something you can never see him doing.
When you go to an interview……you have a CV…a resume. And 99.9% of the time an employer will select the best candidate, whose been there and done it…can talk the talk aswell as walk the walk.
When SAF retires. Can someone please tell me someone with a better CV than maureen. If so please apply for the job here.
I will be interviewing candidates from next monday.
NB. Please note the candidate requires a minimum of 2 champions league wins and must speak fluent english. Candidate must also be willing to help out around the stadium and be prepared to carry out stewarding duties on demand. And also be The Santa at the clubs Christmas party.
fuck off Mourinho, not welcome.
If Fergie retires this summer or the next, why would Real allow Mourinho to leave them for us? That’s the major obstacle I see here.
@Costas:
1. Don’t think SAF will retire in a year or two.
2. Doesn’t he have a release clause in his contract that he can leave if United come knocking?
Good article….some great valid points.
When the time comes for Fergie to retire, I believe that MOU is the best choice we got.
One important thing to consider is that he is now growing into the BEST manager around. You could see the difference between HIS Inter vs FAT BASTARD’s Inter….even though, they are the same players. Also, players WANT to play for him. That wasnt the case when he first took on Chelsea.
A lot of those self-centered issues that he has would go away. Fergie would make sure to keep a watchful eye, put an arm around his shoulder and make him RESPECT our club. If there’s one man MOU respects, is SAF. He not only wants to emulate him, but he would want to over-pass his success….and United is his ticket to do it, which could result in great years of football for us.
Again, when the time comes, there aren’t many managers that could step to fill in those shoes….the truth is, there are NONE. Jose is the best choice out there.
When Fergie goes, Mourinho will be ready to take over. If there is a clause, then Madrid can’t do anything to stop him leaving, I’d say 3 years time.
@Unitedfanatic
I’ve heard that as a rumor, but I can’t imagine a club like Real accepting a clause like that. Our club wouldn’t either. Sounds too good to be true.
As for Fergie, I know he hasn’t set a timetable on his retirement, but in the past he has said that he doesn’t see himself managing in his 70s. I don’t see him staying beyond 2012 to be honest. Especially if we win the league title in that time period..
Surprise Surprise. Montgomery Burns aka MR burns from The simpsons aka Sven Gordon Eriksson first one to apply for the post.
Dear Mr Eriksson.
Thankyou for your recent application regarding the post for the Vacant Managers position at Manchester United.
I regrettably inform you, that you have been unsuccessful this time around. The Board decided that it was in the best interests of the club to avoid million pound pay outs and avoid many a member of the female staff at Manchester United getting pregnant. Which would not blend itself with the clubs philosophy. Even though the club did state, that we promote youth and produce our own. I feel you took this in the wrong context when you undid your trousers in the interview room.
I wish you all the best for the future
Regards
Club Secretary
Sarah Vickers ( my mobile number enclosed if you’re free sometime from Nancy )
Manchester United
The clause has never been rubbished by anyone from Madrid, must be something in it. Inter couldn’t stop him leaving, so Madrid won’t either.
Another Applications come through
A MR GEORGE GRAHAM.
Brown envelope………wait a minute this doesnt feel like an application form enclosed
jose has always thought of united as his dream job.the job he’s done at real in last 2 months is enough to convince me that he can do it at united while playing good football!!!i actually would welcome him..also didn’t know he has a release clause in his contract for united job!!!! IS IT REALLY TRUE??
@Costas:
Yep. Its difficult to digest, with a club like Madrid. But I suppose TNSSO will get his way with Madrid if United do go knocking to his door.
I think SAF will carry on till 2013-2014. He has always said he would continue as long as his health permitted him to, and he seems to be quite hale and hearty ATM.
Sir Jimmy Saville, The Chuckle Brothers, Sooty and Sweep
For fuck sake, this is taking the piss.
Clearly im not happy with the calibre of Candidates applying for the job.
Sarah…get me Florentino Perez on the phone.
suhayl – I think we can rule those two out. I’ll tell ya what, the Italian at West Brom could be to watch out for in the future, brilliant job he’s done so far.
UnitedFanatic: Mourinho’s players love him, and those players combine into teams that are enormously successful, and are notoriously difficult to beat. They are sound defensively, superbly organized and utterly disciplined. In his entire career, only once has a Mourinho team lost at home. That was 8.5 years (140 matches) ago, in February 22. Whatever his attitude in public, it appears to work inside the dressing room.
But I want to add, like Scott, I was not in favor of him coming to us until I heard what’s doing with Real this year — which is to play attacking football. Without that, I wouldn’t want him either.
Did Mourinho not buy Malouda as well?
What a game, who will MUFC get in the transfer window?
SAF when he retires who will get the reigns?
With prostitution legal in the UK what story will be sold next. WOW window shopping for Pussy!
Wow what a sport!!!!
GO ROONEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
GLORY GLORY MUFC!!!!!!!
I agree with you to an extent Scott, still waiting to see where this goes like you, but I won’t deny he has impressed me and I was in the same boat earlier in the season. However I’d just like to point out that the Sergio Canales deal was already done before Jose arrived and the Di Maria one was written on the wall a la Villa to Barca and Valencia to United the season before (no doubt Di Maria was probably tapped up). Anyway the Ozil and Khedira buys were very good, he got them surprisingly cheap but Di Maria was still very expensive at £25mil roughly. None of them were off the radar, especially the two Germans who you can’t help but feel were signed solely off the back of their world cup (before people bash me I had heard of them before the WC too..).
I’d be so so impressed with Jose if he could do something Alex has been doing for a while and (the most recent example being Hernandez) find a great player out of nowhere, something which i’m yet to see him do.
I also await to see how he deals with Benzema, the talent is undoubtedly there and he needs to be able to deal with youth and get the best from them. If he can sort out Benzema and prove that he is capable of getting a diamond from the dirt for a cheap price then I would undoubtedly have no reservations about him being the next manager of United.
…Unless he does something really dickish.
I still don’t want Mourinho near our club but I must admit he seems the ‘obvious’ choice, can we afford him though?!
I’d be very happy for Mourinho to take the reins at OT. As someone has already mentioned, it’s going to take a big personality to take over from such a legend as Fergie, and Mourinho’s got more personality than most, good or bad.
The only grudge I have against Mou is that can he continue our tradition of bringing through youth players??Yes, he has bought Ozil, Di Maria,Pedro, Canales,etc..these players were not exactly unknowns..everyone knew about them..They were linked with several clubs..these were the best young players available in europe and he managed to get them so good for him..But would he ever buy complete unknowns like Bebe or Hernandez??
As for short term or long term, I don’t expect anyone to manage Utd for as long as SAF..I don’t see it happening..If he stays for more than 5 years, I will be pleasantly surprised..Even if he doesn’t(which is very likely) hopefully one our legends will be ready to take up the mantle by that time..and they won’t have to face the burden of replacing SAF..
And for his playing style, well lets face it..we aren’t exactly playing freeflowing, champagne football at the moment..I firmly believe that he adopts a strategy based on the kind of players he has..I can’t see Real playing ultra defensive football when they have the likes of Ronaldo,Ozil,Di Maria,Pedro,Higuain,kaka,alonso..
@Unitedfanatic
Well for me the first choice would be Sir Alex at 70 or 75. That doesn’t change. It’s just that I’d like to believe that he will retire and then plan to have some fun in his life. Not that he’ll go on as long as he is healthy. But that’s just me. As far as he is concerned, maybe United is all that he wants to do in life…
@bigphil2003
Yes he did. But he only worked with him for 2 months or so.
A Mr Bin Laden has applied too.
Promising that his managerial reign will be ‘explosive’
That consigned to the shredder
Is Moyes and O’Neil in the running? Any dark horses?
What about the Santos kid he wants out? AMF !!!
Wish list for the next gaffer.
1) the right one hehe
Wish list for transfers.
1) Rodwell
2) Bale
3) CDMF a ball busting hard tackling good passing fool!!!!!!!!!
4) Buffone
5) CAMF!!!!!!ECT!!!!!!!!!!!!
@StatesideAussie:
I agree with you on the success front mate. I agree he will win us trophies.
But I think you missed my point. My point is he is incompetent to instil the right values in our players.
When you say his teams are disciplined, its only competitively, not attitude wise.
Look at his “special” players. Didier “Its a f***ing disgrace” Drogba. John “Father of the year” Terry.
Michael Ballack. Cashley Cole.
His stint at Inter was shorter than at Chelsea, and radically different from it, in terms of the work he had to do at Chelsea and at Inter.
The talent he develops reek disrespect and disgust, definitely not the kind we want at United.
Willie….yep mate. The mat aka di matt aka di matteo.
One to watch out for definitely…could be a top top manager in the future. Has a very steely self assured aura of confidence about him.
Note for the future.
Right back to the applications
A Ms J Jameson has replied…promising plenty of action and ‘ a great tactical brain when dealing with different positions, also says she has the proven stamina and endurance and passion for the job and she always delivers and that the players will always be performing hard when she is around’
A worthy candidate i think
Leave her in the Willie And Costas pigeon hole to consider for the vacancy.
@Costas:
He does give that impression, that the only aim left in his life is to be here, doesn’t he?
And yes, as much as I hate the idea of a United without him, I must agree its better he retires at the right time, rather than just continue as long as he can.
Terry was a cunt long before Mourinho turned up in England, you can’t put that on him. He’s not his father ffs. The excuses are wearing thin now, just admit he’s the best guy to take over from SAF.
Right we ve had over 200 applicants for the job. And i have to say most were plainly pathetic.
Its down to 2.
Between JJ and Mourinho
suhayl – Me and Costas would gladly let JJ take over from SAF, with Megan Fox as her number two.
Right JJ it is. Jose can take over somewhere else
@willierednut:
With all due respect, The only reason so many are pro-Mourinho is because of the Frikkin Trophies. Can we not see beyond that??
In terms of ability, no doubt he is the best to replace SAF, mate. He will win us LOTS of trophies.
But the only thing I’m reiterating is, after decades of boasting of a value based system at our Club, would we be willing to risk it with Mourinho? Would there be any pride left in Sir Bobby Charlton, Bryan Robson and Sir Alex Ferguson, should he fail??
At the end of the day, it would all come down to this. Would United still be a respectable name, after his stint.
If it comes to a situation where we are willing to find out for ourselves, I reckon it would be a dark day for United.
Oh, and before we get flooded by his proven track record, by fail I mean fail in fulfilling our expectations of mending his ways to align himself with the core values of the club.
Brilliant manager no doubt, and his personality flaws dont bother me too much, but i was under the impression the next manager of the club had to be a) British and/or b) had a prior connection to the club no?
Unitedfanatic – I’ve already made my mind up, it’s Mourinho for me all day long. You think he doesn’t know about Uniteds values? Of course he does, he’s a student of the game and he’s learned off everyone he’s ever worked with, the best candidate out there atm.
We are all only human in the end. So no surprise.
If Mourinho would be willing to stay for 10 years, I’d have him. Otherwise, he’s just a whore that passes himself out to every club that’ll get him nice things (mainly attention and glory). United deserves better than that.
Very fair. Possibly even prematurely fair. I really don’t want to see him at OT though.
However, the past few weeks have proven that more or less anything is possible.
After OWen’s transfer to us, Rooney’s saga etc it is really nothing that can’t be done these years.
We all critisised Rooney attitude and then want Mourihno because in the back of our mind we know he will win us titles.
I think we could beat Racing 6-0 as well. Early days but i was OK with JJ as our next manager from the start..
Mourinho is no doubt a winner.
But what about Joachim Loew??
He’s been a master tactician/manager coaching Germany’s national side. His contract with them runs out in 2012.
I am all for bringing in a non British manager to the club.
Loew’s teams always play with so much charisma, flow, and skill. I think it would be refreshing to get a coach like him in here that plays beautiful football but still has a method of maintaining solid organization and dominant defence.
It decided then, JJ is the new boss.
If I could choose between guadiola and mourinho I’d say guadiola because he is a great character, talented coach and took an underperforming side and won the treble with it. He may come in and make his own mark on the clubs academy aswell and restore some of its former pride. Mourinho is a results coach and the chances of him coming to united if fergie retires are quite high, because he brings sucess with him and a big reputation on these islands. The media would be pushing the boat out for it to happen.
Scott, said even better the same things that I’ve tried to say in the RoM Reads topic. Mourinho is the man for the job at United. Great manager, and very football inteligent.
You can’t compare Fergie finding Chicha with him, SAF has a scout net as long as my cock built in more than 20 years, you can’t compared his findings and Jose’s. Not even fair to do it.
1.Mourinho
2.Blanc
3.Ole
4.Pep
If isn’t the special one, then Pep wouldn’t be a bad second choice.
Once again, willierednut has seen the bigger picture. With JJ as our manager and Megan Fox as her assistant, you can bet that every player will rise…to the occasion.
The anti Mourinho brigade will now disappear, seeing as 90% of people on here just agree with everything Scott says anyway
Brilliant Article!
hate you for the U_turn though
Pragmatic article. Looking forward to the “I had the Glazers all wrong, they’re not all that bad y’know….” in the next year or so
Staying on topic, for success on both the domestic and European stage, JM is by far and away the most qualified candidate.
But we’ve years until we need to worry about that, right?
Bit off topic, I see sneijder signed a 4 year extension at inter
Mourinho is the next United manager
its writen in the stars.. the sooner you guys deal with it the better
he is much better candidate then Guardiola or anyone else
he has the character, experience (but not too old), success
he ticks every box and no one is near him.. I have never seen Real play as good as these days and they were not that fun to watch last year
Moyes, Guardiola and Larry White are all very good, but are not in the same league as him..
Scott,
I have nothing but respect for this blog, but on the Mourinho issue, I felt you were very biased in the past and just couldn’t see past your version of events, even if other United fans and I could.
You still seem very adamant that your version of events are 100% correct. where others perceive that Obi Mikel and Bulharouz probably were not players he wanted – as was Shevchenko – you seem adamant that it was all down to JM,
I’m sorry if I came across as patronizing.
No disrespect was intended – RoM is the standard most United bloggers aspire to and I mean that sincerely.
Cheers!
@Paul H
“But we’ve years until we need to worry about that, right?”
I’m sure you meant it as a rhetorical question but I do hope there are years and years left of the Ferguson reign, I dread the day when these is a different manager calling the shots on the touchline, a different manager lifting trophies, a different manager giving the end of season speech.
Dreaming,Never happen and this isn’t anti.
1) I don’t even think we could afford Mourinho’s salary, he would command around £10m a season, if you believe reports that’s around £4m a season more than Sir Alex Ferguson
2) I cannot see him coming unless he has a big transfer kitty – money we so obviously do not have, despite the Rooney contract extension (which I still feel is a coverup for him to be sold in the summer)
@MUFC WL105 > what a ridiculous comment.
@Red Deviled Egg > Joachim Loew’s not a bad second choice. The other candidates that I like are all too old (like Guus Hiddink).
@UnitedFanatic … I know what you’re saying, but I can’t help take issue with statements like “Would United still be a respectable name, after his stint.” Respectable in whose eyes?
Fans of other clubs? Well, in case you hadn’t noticed, that doesn’t apply now — go to any mainstream newspaper blog and see the vitriol that’s poured on both the club generally and SAF in particular. We are hated, and the Boss is hated, not by everyone but it’s certainly widespread.
The press? Who cares?
The players? Players already respect JM, and you hear that from every club he’s run.
Other managers? Screw ‘em. The more he gets under their skin, the better.
Us? We’re fans, and we’re fickle. If he keeps the trophies rolling in AND plays attractive football, we’ll get over it, I’m sure. As they say in politics here in the States: unless he gets caught in bed with either a live man or a dead woman, we’ll learn to live with it. Well, I will, anyway.
Hailey Mcqueen please and is this site parasite free now
When SAF arrived at OT, he immersed himself into understanding the history of this great club.
HE overhauled everything. He understood what this club was built on , what it had achieved, how far it had fallen and what was needed to restore it to it’s former glory.
Not only is he a truly great manager, he’s a truly great man.
Can Jose really match that? Does he have the heart for it, the passion, the dedication, the vision?
My fear is, he has the ego but precious few of the other attributes to fill the true “Special Ones” boots.
True, nobody will ever really be able to match SAF, he’s a one off, much like Sir Matt was in his time.
Also, as we know, after Sir Matt, we struggled to find anyone who came close to him, it proved overwhelming for many.
I just find it incredibly hard to accept anyone as our manager who gives the impression he is bigger than the team, the impression Jose has given whoever he has managed to now.
@UnitedFanatic (re much earlier comment: “Isn’t that what he has always done since Porto? Move on to the prospect of a successful team..”) er … another way to say that would be: since Porto, he has continually been sought out and hired by leading clubs. I mean, it’s not like it’s totally his decision on which club to join. “Oh, I think I’ll join Inter next … or, tired of them, think I’ll go to Real … where’s the phone, I need to call Real…” They hire him … why? Because he’s been successful. And when he’s hired, he keeps on being successful. When Real hired him, a lot of RM fans were worried about his overly defensive style. Guess what? He listened, and he changed.
Well, you may not like him, but SAF was right when he said we needed experience at the top, what he left out is that we need someone who isn’t too old as well. Who does that leave?
Guardiola? Nobody knows how he will do at a team that isn’t the most gifted on the planet, he inherited a fantastic squad. That being said, the youth that he has brought through Barcelona is quite remarkable, Pedro is something else, Pique has become a world class defender, who knows.
Van Gaal is 60 years old, Ottmar Hitzfeld 61, Marello Lippi 62, insert all other grand old boys of European management, they aren’t long term enough, unless we want to change manager every 4-5 years.
That leaves Jose, the most qualified candidate, can play good football (Inter and Real), yet run a crazily tight defence, his players mostly love him to death, to me that is a good sign. You can print as many stat tables as you like, say he bought every title he has ever won and he will STILL be the most qualified candidate. I for one hope we get him.
ANYONE but Carlos Quieroz!!!!!!
Not read all the posts but I will say this. Mourinho is a winner no one can argue with that. He is probably the only manager in world football that would strike fear into the other premiership clubs. If we won the treble under him as Inter did last year I would be extremely happy, even if we did have a lot of one nil wins. Even under Sir Alex we have had lean spells regarding goals. Was it 5 or 6 one nils we had on the bounce the last time we won the championship??
Plus the boss respects him and he respects the boss. They could have a good working relationship when Fergie moves upstairs.
I think that you have a personal problem with him because of his personality rather than looking at what he has achieved.
Sorry!
Scott I thought you were doing your usual anti mourinho rant so I didn’t read to the end!
My Bad!!!
Fair play with your U-ey Scott… Mourinho is undoubtedly a top manager and seems to bring the best out of his players, but isn’t all this ‘who’s gonna take over after fergie’ talk a bit premature? I hope SAF stays for another 5 years and who’s to say he won’t? He’s in good health, his passion for the game is there for all of us to see and he’s the fucking zen-master. Either way, I suppose it gets us all talking about it and the imagination can run wild for a bit but for me, until Fergie says he’s finished I couldn’t give a toss about what anyone has to say regarding our next gaffer.
Jose will keep the top spot warm until Larry white(Lauren Blanc) or Pep Guardiola gets more experience.
i dont know but the ultimate manager for manchester united would be Eric Cantona.
it would be so fantastic see him again in the stadium and he has the United spirit insight.
Mourinho is a good trainer, but he wants to train united because they are so good and not of the tradition. we’ll see..
Have a drink a drink a drink…
As ever Scott the Red presents a good case for Mourhino on his “most recent ” performance at Madrid.
The “slight” alteration in style of play in as much more attuned to the Manchester United style of play.
Fast flowing and exciting. Lets not forget they have our ex talisman to direct this type of play through.
So in fairness its hardly ever going to be anything other that fast flowing excitement.
Also the purchases as is highlighted have been successful.
His as is again noted, signings at Milan were astute.My greivance looking at the facts overall does a Leopard change its spots?
My problem with Mourhino is two fold.
I dont see him as long term manager of Manchester united, in as much will he remain at the club, for the period of time, where United have gained their greatest success.
During the tenures of Sir Matt and Sir Alex, both longterm reigns as we know.
There is nothing in his cv to suggest this to be the case, of longevity.
Again within the post it highlights the slight change in Mourhino’s attitude to youth.
Which is as we all know is part and parcel of the United philosophy.
Although I believe and have stated in my opinion Sir Alex is setting in place a group of excting youngsters for his replacement.
In tandem with this is the limited budget that he would have at his disposal to shape the team as he would wish, due to the Glazer, while they remain as the “custodians” of United.
I realise its one of two of the biggest issues facing United in the immediate future.
I would prefer we look elsewhere, not some “marquee” manager who will also no doubt require a substantial increase on the £3 million salary Sir Alex is being paid.
I also am not aware of United ever having a manager from outwith the shores of Britain.
I can see the advantage of this and the benifit it would bring as far as European competition’s.
I just cant see United breaking tradition in this manner.
I also dont think Mourhino is a person that respects tradition and history.
To me I would not place the lekkie money i have in a jam jar to be the next United manager.
Gordon Strachan for me all day long!
Seriously I think an ex player or somebody with a more obvious connection to the club.
Brave blog, Scott with brave conclusion but you’ve backed them up brilliantly. I also thought you were doing your normal anti Mourhino rant at first and I was prepared to question why I was so “emotioally” in favour of him being Fergie’s succesor.
You covered that nicely in your conclusion………………
He’s the most sought after coach in the world, a winning recored in the last decade or so probably only bettered by Fergie ….. yet he desperately wants to come to the greatest club in the world.
Got to love that!
Personally, I like Mourinho. He seems a nice guy. I know Scott thinks he is self-obsessed, but I think it was the old day, plus he was Chelsea’s manager at the time. I meant he was still very young into his career and for all the success he had, it was hard not to “proud” of it wasn’t it? I want to use the word “immature”, as a manager, in his case. But since he controversially left Chelsea, I think he realized something and became less self-obsessed. I’m sure Sir Alex had called him and given him a bit of advice
You can see the way he talking is different now, of course there still a bit of arrogant, which is his signature character, but not like some shocking claim before. He now puts more thoughts into his claim, or interview, so that’s a sign of his maturity.
Ability wise, I’m sure no one will doubt him. The only thing that I’m worry about is, like Scott said, youth policy. Developing youngsters has always been a tradition at United, and I dont want to see it disappears. But again, we cannot judge him on his skill of developing young players because he is only at Chelsea, which at its prime, for 4 years and Inter for couple years. So basically he has no long term plan for any club just yet, which is, you know, understandable for a young manager. I hope that’ll change if ever he comes to United. And by that time, I think he’ll qualify as a Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor bacause he’s not a “young manager” anymore
Didn’t read the entire blog
Errr, my bad
Good stand!
Leaderless (STR is warming to Mourinho), the anti-Mourinho brigade begins to crumble!
TSO IS TRIUMPHANT ONCE AGAIN
good argument scott and ive always thought ur arguments against mourinho were good even though i didnt always agree but ur point about him taking over already good squads and then saying we should look at pep is contradictory. Pep talk over a team with 4 of the best players in the world and then proceded to sell one (eto’o) in one of the worst transfer deals by any club in history. granted hes introduced pedro and busqets but these players are so good anyone who was in charge would have introduced them.
I don’t like him either, and I don’t want him to manage United, but correct me if I’m wrong, Chelsea’s unbeaten at Stamford Bridge in the league while he managed Chelsea, that’s for me also one point to ponder.
No need to apologise. The fucker looks like a pissed tramp on that picture there. Keep on keepin’ on Fergie.
If I had been in a coma for the past 10 years, I would think this was a done deal buy reading this…
Lets agree, Sir Alex continues until the next Scottish winners of European Silverware.
@Smart Alex, are you trying to be a funny bastard, Dundee united will win the Europa cup next season. you heard it here along with Mourhino, will never grace the Old trafford halls.
The only place you will see him is at Wastelands when the shakey Sheik Monhoor signs him up for £ 1 million squids per week.
its all desperation.
Nite reds Believe.
Just fucking Believe.
@Scott
A very good article……
In fact I’ve been banging on about some of the points you said myself for the last few weeks on the forums…Am a recent convert to Mourinho as well……
Another point you make about Youth policies of Jose…….
1) Youth policy depends on the time you have available to win success —– At Chelsea and Inter, he was brought in to get instant success, Now if you have been given that kind of mandate by the chairman of your club, you dont have the time to rely on youth do you??
2) the clubs he’s been to have no culture of developing youth at all….Chelsea, Inter have both relied on buying their talent all the time in history. They dont have any youth academies of note so he couldn’t bring through young players simply because he didn’t have any youth to bring through!!
At Real, they have a good academy and he’s trying to do what he can ….
3) Quality of football is a subjective concept —– Even Sir Alex goes pragmatic sometimes –remember the dour 0-0 against barca in the semi-finals and the 1-0 against Valencia away this year? You have to just shut up shop sometimes and get a result…….in fact its been two or three years since we’ve seen the kind of swash-buckling football of the past…
@Willie Costas suhayl
megan Fox it is for me……
I just a recent pic of JJ and i dont think we wanna go down that road mates!
@ King Eric
How are you mate..? I see you’re as feisty as ever..
Hope you’re doing good.
Mourinho would do, but how long will he stay before portugal come calling? And I would like someone who bring in star players to team, he is the best for sure.
mourinhos record speaks for itself but my concern would be if he’s in it for the long haul! would hate us to be in the same situation 2 yrs after he had joined us! The obvious choice is ‘Big Sam’ considering his Real credentials!
Pep Guardiola should never be anywhere near our club, not after managing the biggest scumbag of a club out there. Mourinho I have said it before and I’ll say it again is the only man who can step into SAF boots with confidance and not be afraid of being in the great mans shadow. But best I think would be to clone SAF
Personally, I think it’ll all come down to timing.
If and when SAF retires, whether that be the end of next season, or the season after, who knows?? If Maureen is still happy and adored at Madrid then i’m not sure he’d leave.
Having said that, being happy and adored as a manager at Madrid is near impossible. Like EVERY manager before him at the virus, he’ll fall out with the club at some stage and when that happens, even a European cup won’t save him from the axe.
If that scenario conveniently ties in with SAF’s retirement then he’ll easily be the favourite for the job.
Of course, no doubt when that happens, Citeh will have just sacked Louis Van Gaal, who followed Frank Rijkaard, who followed Guus Hiddink, who followed Fabio Capello, who followed Pep Guardiola………..etc so will no doubt slap a bumper deal on the table for him…
@Red Devil
Agreed mate. JJ has been ruined for a while now, lol.
@StatesideAussie
By respectable, I certainly don’t mean the ABU media. And not the opposition fans, either. Its just the general perception I’m referring to.
Like the stink that emanates from Chelsea right now. Doesn’t matter if they play attractive football. Most of their players are cunts. Everyone openly makes fun of them. The media, opposition fans have always been against us because of our rich trophy haul, but deep down many would admit respect for the club and the manager.
Its a very shaky debate, and I’m not saying I’m 100% against Mourinho. It only seems more likely that he is the one to replace SAF. But I’m very sceptical about him because I think we can yet find a better person instead of Mourinho.
It would be too good to be true to see him change his attitude, and continue playing attacking football with Real. I would be happy to witness that.
But one thing I assure you. He is at a treasury with the power to buy anyone, anytime. Can we assure that if the Glazer regime crumbles and our debts increase? That situation would demand what SAF is currently doing, getting unknown but great potential lads like Chico, Bebe, etc.
Something Mourinho has repeatedly demonstrated that he has a special talent of, eh? He is just buying regular known names all the time.
The catch here is, it may not be totally up to him, and SAF will most likely be present as an advisor or something.
Although it may not be a complete disaster if Mourinho arrived at United, I would definitely prefer someone better.
Or we can get him while we wait for the likes of Blanc, Moyes, etc. to get more experience. But then again, its just my opinion.
@Unitedfanatic
When Mourinho was at Porto he didnt have any ‘superstars’ or didnt buy ‘superstars’. Got the best out of players like Deco, Costinha etc. Even at Inter he made smart buys like Sneijder and Lucio. He is doing the same at Real Madrid. SAF did the same too with the likes of Cantona. The Glazers have always insisted that we have the funds and SAF has said the same so i see no reason to worry. As it is we are going to have to spend some money next summer.
He likes to create the ‘siege’ mentality like SAF does which ends up in firing the players even more. Not many fans like him but just like SAF know deep down inside that he is a top manager. SAF is ‘respected’ by everyone but is ‘disliked’ by almost all journos and fans. Not that we care
Good post Scott, though i have to disagree on one point… I hate Mourinho, I Hate Inter and Chelsea, but… there’s all the difference in the world between finishing 2nd in the portuguese league and winning everything that has to be won… i agree when you say that he found a solid base in Chelsea and Inter, but that Porto squad was a real miracle… they played GREAT football (it wasn’t dire, goodness me!), see for example the match in which they tore Lazio apart in the uefa cup during Jose’s first season in charge (and Lazio weren’t that bad at that time, let me assure you!) and won EVERYTHING in the space of 2 years! … he’s an enemy, agreed… but i give him the credit he deserves…
agree 100% on the rest of the post… especially that he’s egoism made flesh
Actually i think i am also starting to accept Mourinho. And i think it’s just sooner or later he will come here. Because he wants to be here. Nobody else publicly claims the seat like Mourinho does, so you can think of the other managers who want to come here but dont dare to admit it publicly as not having the stomach for the job.
Red Devil Yeah fine thanks mate , you?
I am getting a bit sick of comments like “the anti Mourinho mob have lost their leader” Err those that dont want the cunt are well capable of thinking for themselves and having their own opinions and not just following Scott!
I’m getting sick of people coming up with excuses about Mourinho, not being the right man for United.
Just to add, that wasn’t a dig at anyone, just a bit of banter, lighten up KE.
King Eric
I’m good mate…gods grace….Although I’ll feel a lot better if we thrash spurs at OT…
You know a real ‘United’ level performance against a good champions league team just to jee up the lads and the fans after the poor start to the season..
What makes you think he wants to go to OT? He is currently at a club who took your best player with ease and I doubt they will let him leave when he starts bringing in the silverware. And don’t forget that the Glazers will milk you lot for years while City become the biggest club in the world (I’m a Blackburn fan before you start). Do you think he really wants to work with Bebe, Smalling and countless other no-names? Typical sheer arrogance from Manchester United fans thinking Jose will come running. He is now much, much bigger than Manchester United and has just started his Real Madrid dynasty.
Paul t – Wow, you managed to talk a lot of shite in that small paragraph.
We ought to wait and see how he does in Real. Seems to be alright for now but the season is long. Their fixtures thus far haven’t been that though and they’re top of the table mostly because of Barcelona’s failures.
great site this is.I think when saf does eventually step down dread the day that happens the manager who succeeds SAF wil have to have a big personality and mourinho certainly has that and his cv also shows hes a winner.the points mentioned above in terms of how he sets his teams up is valid he is a defensive minded coach and manchester united philosphy of play as always been to attack also from the days of Sir Matt united put alot of emphasis on bring youth thour which again mentioned in the above mourinho isnt known to do. but he does seem to get great camardrie within his teams where they really want to play for him. i personally would like to see him succed SAF and time will tell with mourinho himself can change is philosphy of play i mean look at the guys record at home in the domestic leagues hes managed i think it something like 180 odd games unbeaten but if sir bobby is against it mmmm wasnt sir booby charlton instrumental in getting SAF here