MOURINHO’S WAIT
Matic reunited with former manager at United
LONDON to playing my part in creating more history for this great club.”
Mourinho told the club’s website: “Nemanja is a Manchester United player and a Jose Mourinho player. He represents everything we want in a footballer; loyalty, consistency, ambition, team player.
“I would like to thank him for his desire to join us because without that, it would be impossible to have him here. I am sure our players and supporters will love him. A big welcome to our new number 31.”
Chelsea have paid tribute to Matic following his departure, writing on their official Twitter account: “We thank Nemanja for his fantastic service and wish him well for the future.”
The signing of Tiemoue Bakayoko meant Matic will have found regular starts limited at Stamford Bridge this season, and the defensive midfielder will now compete with Michael Carrick for a first-team place.
Owner Roman Abramovich had given him permission to join a Premier League rival as a reward for helping the club lift the title twice in the last three seasons.
Though Juventus expressed interest, they were unwilling to match the financial package plus the length of contract that Matic sought. Instead, he will be reunited with former Chelsea boss Mourinho, who tried to sign Matic last season.
Mourinho had targeted at least four signings this summer, though accepts he may have to be satisfied with three following the arrivals of Victor Lindelof and Romelu Lukaku.
Meanwhile, Mourinho has quashed speculation that Marouane Fellaini could leave United for Galatasaray — saying there is more chance of him joining the Turkish club than the midfielder.
Mourinho insists Fellaini is staying put, and said: “It is easier for Galatasaray to get me than Marouane. Marouane — forget it. He’s very important for me.” Daily Mail