Manchester United icon Alex Ferguson insists Jose Mourinho was “wrong” to re-join Chelsea in 2013.
The Portuguese conducted his first press conference as United boss on Tuesday, after becoming the third manager to pen a permanent contract with the club in the post-Ferguson era.
He has signed for the Red Devils following an extremely disappointing 2015/16, in which he lost his job at Chelsea.
Mourinho oversaw just four victories in the first 16 Premier League matches of the campaign, causing the Blues to dismiss him in December.
Ferguson, who shares a well-publicised good relationship with Mourinho, believes the 53-year-old shouldn’t have even been in the position at Stamford Bridge, and is backing him to be a success in the North West of England.
“I thought Jose was wrong to go back to Chelsea, I really do,” the legendary former United boss told Sky Sports at a charity event.
“I think it’s always difficult going back to somewhere for a second time.
“The ability, charisma and personality, his success is high, won a European Cup twice with different clubs, won a Europa [League] with Porto, winning titles with all the teams he’s managed. His record – you can’t ignore that.
“I think Manchester United is the right kind of club for him, I really do. I think we’ll do well.”
Mourinho’s first spell at Chelsea saw him win two league titles, while lifting the FA Cup once and the League Cup twice.
He followed that up by experiencing unprecedented success at Inter Milan, though largely failed to usurp Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona during his time as Real Madrid manager.
In the summer of 2013, Mourinho returned to west London, declaring himself as “The Happy One” and stating his desire to build a dynasty. Winning the top- flight at a canter in 2014/15 seemed to be the first step to achieving that aim.
However, off-field controversies coupled with poor performances – including a goal concession average of 1.63 in the league last season – put an end to Mourinho’s dream.
COMMENTS