Football NewsBBC SportUnverified source· 10 Aug 2026
Mourinho's U-turn: Tears, Chelsea, and United's Sliding Doors
In 2013, Mourinho agreed to replace Ferguson, then reversed in days, leaving United stunned.
José Mourinho
coach
Year
2013
Clubs
Manchester United, Chelsea
Reason
Family reasons, given word to Chelsea
What happened. Manchester United's attempt to appoint Jose Mourinho as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor in 2013 collapsed when Mourinho reversed his decision, citing family reasons and a promise to Chelsea.
- Meetings held in Madrid and London over weeks.
- Ferguson told Mourinho he was stepping down.
- Mourinho cried on phone to Ferguson, said he couldn't break his word.
“Alex, I can't take it. I've given my word to Chelsea and I'm not going to break my word.”
— Jose Mourinho
The story is revealed in a new Netflix documentary series about Mourinho's career, airing from 11 August.
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