Jose Mourinho's statement after being sacked from Manchester United
Everyone was waiting to hear from him and finally, former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has revealed his thoughts on being sacked by the club. Mourinho's sacking came days after United were punished with a 3-1 defeat by bitter rivals Liverpool at Anfield. Under him, United had made their poorest start to a season in 28 years. Here's what the Portuguese had to say.
Immensely proud of the time spent at United: Jose Mourinho
Mourinho expressed pride at wearing Manchester United's badge, and has made some life-long friends at the club. He said he will show immense respect to the club and will refrain from commenting against his former employers or colleagues. He further asked the media to respect his position and allow him to live his normal life. He will be paid £22.5 million after the sacking.
Mourinho was making steady progress till his third season
It was not that Mourinho was without success at United in his first two seasons, but as always, the 'third season curse' which comes with him plagued his relationship with players and authorities at United. Mourinho delivered the Europa League, EFL Cup and the Community Shield in his time as United gaffer, and made the club runners-up in the league and the FA Cup.
Which are the specific reasons for his sacking?
It is believed that Mourinho was sacked for two reasons - United's performances, and worsening relationships with the players and the higher management. United looked without a purpose on the field this season, without any proper tactics to attack, and ended up losing unnecessarily. Moreover, he was often critical of his players publicly, which led to him losing respect in the dressing room.
Here's looking at Mourinho's third season blues over the years
Mourinho's third season troubles started with Chelsea where he became the Messiah after delivering the Blues' first EPL title in 50 years. However, all changed after the third season, and Mourinho abruptly left Chelsea in the middle of the fourth season. He left Real in the same manner during the third season, doing the same during his second stint at Chelsea. Now, he has followed it up at United.