José Mourinho's tenure as manager of Manchester United from 2016 to 2018 was a rollercoaster ride that captivated football enthusiasts worldwide. The charismatic Portuguese coach, known for his tactical prowess and often controversial persona, took on the challenge of reviving the glory days of one of England's most iconic football clubs. This article delves into Mourinho's journey at Manchester United, exploring his strategic vision, notable achievements, and the factors that ultimately led to his departure.
Mourinho’s Arrival: A New Era for Manchester United
When José Mourinho was appointed as Manchester United’s manager in May 2016, it marked a significant shift in the club’s direction. United, having endured a disappointing post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, sought a manager who could restore the club’s dominance. Mourinho, with his reputation as a serial winner and his penchant for pragmatic, results-oriented football, seemed like the perfect fit.
Mourinho's arrival was met with much fanfare. His charismatic personality and renowned tactical mind immediately captured the imagination of the United faithful. The Portuguese manager brought with him a wealth of experience, having won major trophies with Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid. He was tasked with returning Manchester United to the pinnacle of English and European football.
The Early Successes
Mourinho’s first season at the helm got off to a promising start. United finished sixth in the Premier League the previous season, and Mourinho’s primary objective was to guide the club back into the top four and secure Champions League football. He achieved this with relative ease, as United finished second in the 2016-17 Premier League season, just behind champions Chelsea.
The 2016-17 campaign also saw Mourinho lead United to silverware. The team won the EFL Cup (now known as the Carabao Cup) and the UEFA Europa League, the latter of which secured United's return to the Champions League. These trophies were a testament to Mourinho's ability to motivate his players and his expertise in managing squad rotations.
Furthermore, Mourinho's United set a new Premier League record by remaining unbeaten in their first 25 games of the season. This achievement highlighted the solid defensive foundation that Mourinho had instilled in the team, a hallmark of his managerial style.
Transfer Strategy and Key Signings
Mourinho’s success at Manchester United was underpinned by a careful transfer strategy. He prioritized signing players who could bring immediate impact and fit his tactical system. One of his most notable acquisitions was Paul Pogba, who returned to Old Trafford in a then-world-record transfer from Juventus.
| Player | Position | Transfer Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Paul Pogba | Midfielder | £89 million |
| Eric Bailly | Defender | £30 million |
| Henrikh Mkhitaryan | Attacking Midfielder | £26.3 million |
| Zlatan Ibrahimović | Striker | Free |
Other notable signings included Eric Bailly, who brought much-needed stability to the defense, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who provided creativity and goal-scoring threat in midfield. Mourinho also made a key loan signing, bringing in forward Alexis Sánchez from Arsenal in January 2018.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite the early successes, Mourinho’s time at Manchester United was not without its challenges and controversies. As the 2017-18 season progressed, the team’s performances became increasingly inconsistent, leading to criticism of Mourinho’s tactics and squad management.
Tactical Approach and Player Relations
Mourinho’s pragmatic approach to football, which often prioritized results over entertainment, drew mixed reactions from fans and pundits alike. While his defensive solidity was admired, some felt that United’s style of play lacked creativity and fluidity.
Additionally, Mourinho's relationship with certain players came under scrutiny. High-profile disagreements with stars like Anthony Martial and Paul Pogba made headlines, raising questions about the manager's man-management skills and his ability to foster a positive team environment.
Domestic Cup Exits
Another source of disappointment during Mourinho’s tenure was United’s early exits from domestic cup competitions. In both the 2017-18 and 2018-19 FA Cup campaigns, United were eliminated in the quarter-finals, failing to replicate their Europa League success in domestic knockout tournaments.
The Changing Football Landscape
Mourinho’s style of play, which had been so successful in the past, was beginning to face new challenges in an evolving football landscape. The rise of high-pressing, possession-based football, popularized by teams like Liverpool and Manchester City, exposed weaknesses in Mourinho’s more conservative approach.
United's struggles against these new-age footballing forces became a significant factor in Mourinho's eventual departure. The club's hierarchy, eager to keep pace with the Premier League's elite, felt that a change in managerial approach was necessary to compete with the likes of Pep Guardiola's Manchester City.
The End of an Era
As the 2018-19 season progressed, it became increasingly evident that Mourinho’s time at Manchester United was coming to a close. The team’s performances continued to falter, and tensions between the manager and the board grew.
The Final Straw
The final straw came after a 3-1 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield in December 2018. United’s performance in that game, coupled with a growing sense of disharmony within the squad, led to Mourinho’s departure. The club announced his sacking on December 18, 2018, with Ole Gunnar Solskjær taking over as interim manager.
Legacy and Impact
José Mourinho’s legacy at Manchester United is a complex one. While he brought two major trophies to the club and guided them back into the Champions League, his time at the helm was marked by controversy and inconsistent results. Despite the challenges, Mourinho’s impact on the club cannot be understated, and his influence on English football remains significant.
Future Implications
Mourinho’s departure paved the way for a new era at Manchester United, one that emphasized a more attacking and entertaining brand of football. The club’s subsequent appointments of Ole Gunnar Solskjær and Erik ten Hag reflected a shift towards a more progressive and dynamic style of play.
However, the challenge of rebuilding Manchester United into a consistent title contender remains a work in progress. The club continues to strive for the glory days of the past, and the lessons learned from Mourinho's tenure will undoubtedly shape their future strategies.
Conclusion
José Mourinho’s time at Manchester United was a fascinating chapter in the club’s history. His arrival brought a sense of excitement and hope, and while his tenure was not without its controversies, he left an indelible mark on the club. As Manchester United continues its journey towards regaining its place among the elite, Mourinho’s legacy will forever be a part of the club’s rich tapestry.
What were José Mourinho’s major achievements at Manchester United?
+Mourinho won two trophies during his time at Manchester United: the EFL Cup and the UEFA Europa League. He also guided the team to a second-place finish in the Premier League during the 2016-17 season.
Why was Mourinho sacked by Manchester United?
+Mourinho was sacked due to a combination of factors, including inconsistent results, tensions with the board, and a growing sense of disharmony within the squad. The 3-1 defeat to Liverpool in December 2018 was the final straw.
How did Mourinho’s style of play evolve during his time at United?
+Mourinho’s style of play remained largely pragmatic and results-oriented throughout his tenure. However, as the football landscape evolved, his conservative approach began to face new challenges, particularly against high-pressing, possession-based teams.
