Manchester United have now officially confirmed that Jose Mourinho is their new manager, replacing former boss Louis van Gaal.
The 53-year-old has signed a three-year contract with an option to stay on until 2020, and will now look to take United back to the top of the Premier League table next season.
His appointment had been expected for a number of days with various issues holding up an official announcement, but United have now confirmed that the ‘Special One’ will take charge at Old Trafford, and the former Chelsea boss was delighted to land the top job at United.
“To become Manchester United manager is a special honour in the game. It is a club known and admired throughout the world. There is a mystique and a romance about it which no other club can match,” he told the club’s official website.
“I have always felt an affinity with Old Trafford; it has hosted some important memories for me in my career and I have always enjoyed a rapport with the United fans. I’m looking forward to being their manager and enjoying their magnificent support in the coming years.”
Mourinho has been out of work since being sacked by Chelsea last December, but made no secret about his desire to return to management as soon as possible.
Van Gaal’s sacking on Monday, just two days after winning the FA Cup, paved the way for his return, with the Dutchman paying the price for failing to qualify for the Champions League.
It will now be down to Mourinho to get United back competing for domestic honours and to ensure that they make a swift return to Europe’s top table.
United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward added: “José is quite simply the best manager in the game today. He has won trophies and inspired players in countries across Europe and, of course, he knows the Premier League very well, having won three titles here.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome him to Manchester United. His track record of success is ideal to take the club forward.”
We are delighted to announce Jose Mourinho is our new manager! Full statement: https://t.co/PDiHMIWnpd #WelcomeJose pic.twitter.com/eZ8NBSz2up
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) May 27, 2016