Former Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has extended his support to Ruben Amorim, while also giving his verdict on Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s tenure at the club so far.
Amorim has endured a tumultuous start to life at United since replacing Erik ten Hag in November last year, losing eight of the 16 Premier League games he has taken charge of.
At the moment, United are languishing in 14th place in the table, with just 33 points gained from a possible 81.
Having been knocked out of the FA Cup by Fulham last weekend, the Europa League represents United’s last chance to win a trophy and clinch European football ahead of next season.
Despite the team’s struggles under Amorim, Mourinho – who was in charge of the club from 2016 to 2018 – has offered his backing.
The Fenerbahce gaffer told Sky Sports about Amorim, “He’s a good kid. Always very respectful to me. We had a good relationship for a few years. He knows I wish him well.”
Mourinho confirmed that he and Amorim last spoke during Christmas.
Since he assumed operational control of United a year ago, Ratcliffe has implemented a number of cost-cutting measures including making hundreds of staff redundancies, cancelling cup final perks for employees, cutting back on ambassadorial salaries and hiking ticket prices.
Asked about this, Mourinho answered, “To be honest I don’t know much about what’s happening.”
“I know Sir Jim Ratcliffe. I’m not saying we are big friends but we have a good relationship. I know him well. He invited me to his house a couple of times. I see him as a good person and a great businessman.”
“Of course, I feel for some of the people that I know [losing their jobs], but hopefully it goes in the right direction.”
Mourinho is eyeing his fifth major European trophy and Fenerbahce’s route to May’s final could see them face United in the last four at the end of April and start of May.
Despite this, he insisted he does not see it as an opportunity to get revenge against his former side.
“In my mind, I never feel about revenge. I never have that feeling because when I leave a club, I prefer to remember my good times at the club.”
Meanwhile, United are back in action later today when they face Real Sociedad in San Sebastian. Kick-off is at 17:45 GMT.
Featured image Ahmad Mora via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
