Off the PitchDaily Mail FootballUnverified source· 10 Aug 2026
Mourinho's United Revelation Backfires, Exposes Fickleness
Mourinho's claim he rejected Manchester United in 2013 reveals more about his own flaws than his past glory.
José Mourinho
coach
Who
Jose Mourinho
What
Revealed he turned down Man United job in 2013
When
In a new documentary about his career
Where
Real Madrid, where he is starting second stint
What happened. Jose Mourinho revealed in a documentary that he reneged on an agreement to join Manchester United in 2013, instead returning to Chelsea, a decision that has drawn criticism.
- Mourinho's revelation implies David Moyes was not first choice to succeed Ferguson.
- He has been out of top jobs, finishing third at Benfica last season.
- Now at Real Madrid, he must convince stars like Bellingham and Mbappe.
Mourinho's past success is contrasted with recent struggles, raising doubts about his current tenure.
In this story
Manchester UnitedMore to read
BBC Sport
Sliding doors - when Mourinho said yes, then no, to Man Utd
Mirror Football
Jose Mourinho reveals he signed contract to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United
The Guardian
José Mourinho reveals he signed contract to succeed Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in 2013
Daily Mail Football
Jose Mourinho makes stunning admission that he AGREED to replace Sir Alex Ferguson as Man United manager in 2013 before making U-turn during emotional phone call with legendary boss
