£0 Contract U-Turn: Mourinho's 2013 Manchester United Snub
Jose Mourinho has revealed that he signed a contract to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester United manager in 2013, only to change his mind and return to Chelsea instead. This revelation was confirmed by both Mourinho and Ferguson in a new Netflix documentary series about Mourinho’s career.
The decision to appoint Mourinho as Ferguson’s successor was made after the Scottish manager’s retirement in 2013, following 26 years at the helm of Manchester United. However, within hours of accepting the job, Mourinho had a change of heart and decided to honor his commitment to Chelsea, a decision that led to Manchester United appointing David Moyes as their new manager.
Chelsea
clubMourinho explained that he was “very flattered” to be offered the job of replacing Ferguson because “Manchester United has an incredible appeal.” However, he felt that he could not break his word to Chelsea, where he had previously won consecutive Premier League titles in 2005 and 2006. Ferguson confirmed that Mourinho was “offered the job” and that he had accepted it, only to change his mind later.
“When I left Real Madrid, I signed to go to Manchester United after Sir Alex. But one thing is love for football, another thing is love for a certain club. I think this is more powerful than love for football, and fundamentally, after Real Madrid, I needed to feel that I’m loved.”
Mourinho’s decision to choose Chelsea over Manchester United had significant consequences for both clubs. While Mourinho went on to win his third Premier League title with Chelsea, Manchester United appointed David Moyes, who was sacked after just 10 months in charge. Mourinho eventually took over as Manchester United manager in 2016, succeeding Louis van Gaal, and won the League Cup and Europa League titles before being sacked in December 2018.
Jose Mourinho
coachMourinho’s choice to return to Chelsea was driven by his desire to feel loved and appreciated by the club. He had previously won two Premier League titles with Chelsea and felt a strong connection to the club. Ferguson understood Mourinho’s decision, but was disappointed that he had changed his mind so quickly. The decision had a significant impact on Manchester United, leading to the appointment of David Moyes and ultimately affecting the club’s performance in the following seasons.
“For me to lose the chance to be the coach to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson was dramatic, but I don’t regret it because it was a decision that I made with my heart.”
Mourinho’s revelation provides a fascinating insight into the events that unfolded in 2013 and the factors that influenced his decision to choose Chelsea over Manchester United. The consequences of this decision had a lasting impact on both clubs and their respective performances in the following seasons.
Verbatim statements were originally broadcasted via Netflix.