Jose Mourinho insisted on Friday that Manchester United never make ‘a circus’ out of winning in the wake of last weekend’s derby bust-up.
The United manager also declared himself ready to grasp the chance to make important signings in January.
Mourinho, speaking after Christmas lunch with his coaching staff, said the mood at United’s Carrington complex was normal after losing to City and the subsequent fracas in the tunnel.
Both clubs have filed their observations of the incident to the FA.
‘The next day the place was normal — as I like it,’ he said. ‘I don’t like a circus when you win and you’re happy. I don’t like a sad place when you lose. I like an emotional balance. Bournemouth (on Wednesday) was difficult and we coped. Back to normal.’
Striker Romelu Lukaku seemed reluctant to celebrate his winner, but Mourinho added: ‘I didn’t either. I control my emotions. I’m not acting to the cameras or the fans.’
Mourinho, who believes his squad still needs some reshaping, hopes there will be chances to land targets such as Arsenal’s Mesut Ozil and Atletico Madrid’s Antoine Griezmann next month.
He said: ‘I’m not a big defender of the January market but there are players that sometimes you have the chance to do and you shouldn’t lose that chance.’
The manager also said centre back Eric Bailly will be sidelined for up to three months after ankle surgery. Midfielder Marouane Fellaini also looks to be out until the new year to ensure he is fully recovered from a knee injury.
As well as facing a tough game at West Brom on Sunday, Mourinho has until Monday to explain to the FA his pre-derby remarks in which he accused Manchester City of ‘tactical fouls’.
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