Jose Mourinho has released a statement following his departure from Manchester United, saying he has been ‘immensely proud’ to be their manager.
It is a job that he was thought to have coveted for a number of years, but his time at Manchester United hasn’t really worked out, with him never looking likely to add to his three Premier League winners medals.
The best he managed was a runners-up spot behind Man City last season, although with Pep Guardiola breaking almost every record in Premier League history, United’s second place hardly felt like an achievement.
He was sacked by Manchester United on Tuesday morning having left the club a staggering 19 points behind league leaders Liverpool, and 11 points behind the coveted top four places.
With Ole Gunnar Solskjaer now confirmed as his replacement on a temporary basis, Mourinho has released the following statement to the media.
“I have been immensely proud to wear the badge of Manchester United since the first day I arrived, and I believe all United supporters recognise this.
“Just as was the case with my previous clubs, I have worked with some wonderful people and I believe that some will be my friends for life.
“I know that you are all aware of my professional principles. Each time a chapter is closed I show my deepest respect and I don’t make any comments about my former colleagues.
“I hope the media will also respect my position and let me live my normal life until the moment I decide to return to football.
“Merry Christmas.”
Mourinho won the Europa League and League Cup in his first season at the club, before steering the Red Devils to the FA Cup final last year.
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