Give me Mour time at United
to click. After stunning Old Trafford with their comeback victory over Newcastle before the international break, United served notice of a return to form when drawing at Stamford Bridge at the weekend.
“Everyone was happy with the performance but nobody was happy with the result,” said Mourinho. “What I’ve told the players is to get the best out of the feelings.
“But the way we can play, and the way we want to play, was shown in the last two matches, so we will try to play that way again.”
Mourinho said keeping Juventus quiet would fully test United’s renewed resolve. And while he was reluctant to discuss individuals, swerving questions about Paul Pogba, he made an exception for Cristiano Ronaldo.
“They have a lot to offer and an extra year with the same coach and structure. They’ve won seven titles on the trot and have a really special player who makes a real difference,” he said.
Pressed on where Ronaldo ranked among all the players he had worked with, Mourinho added: “Cristiano is at a level where he doesn’t need these questions and these answers. He’s one of the best players of all time.”
Mourinho, meanwhile, has been “reminded of his responsibilities” but will not be punished further for his part in the touchline fracas at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea coach Marco Ianni was yesterday charged with improper conduct by the FA after celebrating the Blues’ late equaliser in front of the United bench.
An FA spokesperson confirmed both clubs had received official reminders about the behaviour expected of their staff and players while in the technical area. Ianni has until 6pm on Thursday to respond to the charge but Mourinho believed the young coach had been punished enough.