Man Utd legend backs Jose Mourinho return but club would ‘never allow it’
Jose Mourinho is currently manager of Benfica having previously been in charge of Manchester United between 2016 and 2018
Jose Mourinho was sacked by Manchester United in December 2018(Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United legend Nicky Butt has backed the potential return of Jose Mourinho to Old Trafford. The Reds are on the hunt for a permanent manager following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal in January.
Interim boss Michael Carrick has impressed during his temporary stint, suffering just one loss so far – positioning himself as a contender for the permanent role. United currently occupy third place under their former midfielder as they move closer to securing Champions League qualification – a tournament they have been absent from for three years.
United’s decision-makers have yet to determine who will steer the club into next season. Paris Saint-Germain’s Luis Enrique, Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann and Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner have all been mentioned as potential candidates.
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Former Reds midfielder Butt has revealed to Paddy Power why he would welcome Mourinho’s return. The Portuguese was in charge of United from 2016 to 2018, claiming the League Cup and Europa League during his two-and-a-half-year tenure.
He said: “I would have him back. He’s a winner and can carry that football club, but the powers that be would never allow it, as they now prefer a manager who focuses solely on coaching rather than controlling recruitment.
“No established manager will want to come to Manchester United without guarantees on budget, time, and control. The structure right now makes it difficult, and they may prefer someone like Michael Carrick instead.”
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Carrick’s side require 16 points from their remaining fixtures to secure a place in the Champions League, though that would hinge on their rivals winning all of their remaining league matches.
United return to action on Monday, April 13, with a home clash against Leeds (8pm BST). They then face just six further matches, with their final game coming away at Brighton and Hove Albion on May 24.
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