Jose Mourinho took his first press conference as Manchester United boss on Tuesday morning, and outlined what he expects to achieve in the next 12 months.
The Portuguese tactician was officially confirmed as United manager last month, but enjoyed his first day of work at Carrington on Monday.
In turn, he addressed the media for the first time since being appointed on Tuesday, and covered various topics ahead of what will be an important season for both him and the club.
Mourinho has wasted little time in the transfer market having confirmed signings of Eric Bailly and Zlatan Ibrahimovic already, and hinted that four high-profile players will be signed ahead of the upcoming campaign.
Mou: “we have four priorities in key places”. He said a third player has been signed but he has been told it cannot be announced yet
— Guillem Balague (@GuillemBalague) July 5, 2016
It's safe to say a 3rd signing is imminent at #MUFC…
Live stream: https://t.co/0pOCDbjUCh https://t.co/ZPlZTc7VD8— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) July 5, 2016
The 53-year-old was also asked about his objectives at Old Trafford, both in terms of success and how to take the club forward as he looks to improve on their achievements under Louis van Gaal.
Evidently, a return to the Champions League will be the first priority after missing out this time round, and so a top-four finish in the Premier League will naturally be the minimum requirement for both the manager and club in his first season.
However, Mourinho also went into detail on what he expects from the playing side of things, with Van Gaal coming under heavy criticism during his tenure for United’s style of play.
While the proof will be on the pitch as to what Mourinho is capable of getting out of this United squad, he was clear in what he expects from the players and the reaction he hopes to get from the supporters.
Score more goals…
Make fans proud…
Play young players…
Live stream: https://t.co/VabDp7aClj https://t.co/0soOuHjdeR— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) July 5, 2016
Meanwhile, there was also time for the ‘Special One’ to have another dig at old rival Arsene Wenger, with whom he’ll lock horns with again next season.
Asked about whether or not he had a point to prove following his sacking at Chelsea last season, Mourinho responded:
Point to prove? Mourinho: “There are some managers, the last time they won a title was ten years ago . . the last time I won was a year ago”
— Daniel Taylor (@DTguardian) July 5, 2016
It was a typical introduction to Mourinho for many, as he combined wit with serious discussions about certain aspects of the job, even offering at one stage to read out a list of 49 youth players that he has promoted from academies in the face of criticism that he doesn’t give youngsters a chance.
Nevertheless, he will know the importance of getting off to a good start next season, and that in turn will set the tone for his spell at Old Trafford as he also faces the task of coming up against old foe Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.