An interesting thought to consider as we approach the end of the season.
When discussing some of the most talented managers in world football, it’s exceedingly difficult to look beyond the current Manchester United boss, Jose Mourinho.
One of the best
Having risen to prominence with Porto, by winning the Champions league in sensational circumstances, the 55-year-old has enjoyed terrific success at every club that he’s represented since departing his native Portugal.
Despite the recent toxicity between the two parties, Jose Mourinho is and will forever be remembered best for his time as the Chelsea manager. His very first season with the West londoners remains to be the most successful season in Premier league history (regarding points achieved). During his first stint with the Blues, the self-proclaimed ‘Special One’ won two Premier league titles, one FA Cup and two league Cups – a terrific record.
He enjoyed similar success in Italy, with Inter Milan. Although he’ll always be treasured in Milan for winning the treble with the Serie A giants in the 2009-10 season, he won five trophies in the space of two years with the Italian outfit. Similarly, he was successful at Real Madrid, earning three trophies which included the la liga triumph in the 2011-12 campaign.
While his second spell at Chelsea is primarily remembered for his dismal last season with the club and the disagreements that have ensued since his departure, he proved that he still had the capability to thrive in arguably the most competitive division in the world. During the 2014-15 he orchestrated his Chelsea side to a domestic double, winning the league – somewhat comfortably – in addition to beating Tottenham to lift the league Cup.
Without question, Mourinho isn’t the most likeable character in the beautiful game, nor is he one that refrains from controversy, yet the word ‘winner’ best encapsulates his achievements in the game. Accordingly, it was no surprise that his first season at Manchester United was successful.
United glory
Regardless of their disappointing league form last campaign – the Red Devils finished sixth – he was able to secure United’s Champions league status courtesy of victory in the Europa league. He even displayed his proficiency of winning cup competitions by triumphing 3-2 against Southampton in the final of the league Cup.
Current problems
Yet, doubts are beginning to linger whether United can win the title under his stewardship. United haven’t won the league since the 2012-13 season, and while the Red Devils have already surpassed the points tally that they attained last season (69 points in comparison to 71 points), they have still been a considerable distance away from Manchester City’s quality.
Moreover, they were dumped out of the Champions league side by a Sevilla team that should have been beaten. Additionally, Mourinho’s side were eliminated from the EFl Cup by Championship opposition, Bristol City.
Currently, the Europa league champions look destined to finish in second place which is a respectable league position. Also, their hopes of winning the FA Cup are still alive as they face Tottenham Hotspur in the semi-finals.
However, if United were to lose in against Spurs the FA Cup – or lose in the final - then they would have registered another season devoid of silverware. It could potentially be their third trophyless season since the legend, Sir Alex Ferguson, departed the club at the end of the 2012-13 season. A season without a trophy will hardly constitute progress. Coincidentally, this season is the first time in Mourinho’s managerial career that he’s failed to win the league during his second season with the club.
Naturally, it would be foolish and ill-advised to suggest that United would dominate English Football immediately after Mourinho’s appointment. Nonetheless, the Red Devils have spent an astounding amount of money on incomings in an attempt to augment and reinforce United’s chances of success. Manchester United must begin to reap the benefits of this investment.
The forthcoming summer transfer window represents a significant opportunity for United to develop a team that is capable of challenging and triumphing over Manchester City in the pursuit of the Premier league title. Rumours have already begun to circulate regarding probable departures, and it is conceivable that more recognisable talents will be acquired by United during Mourinho’s reign as manager.
Nevertheless, if United fail to win the Premier league trophy for the third successive season under Mourinho’s guidance, then questions will be asked of his capacity to thrive at the highest level. As has previously been established, the Portuguese coach is one of the most gifted managers in football, yet he’s failed to win the league in his previous three seasons as a manager. If he fails to deliver the Premier league crown next season, he could well be forced out of the door at Old Trafford.