So he knows what is the problem. Jose Mourinho has explained just why Manchester United’s struggles are absolutely sod all to do with him. United are seventh in the Premier League table after 13 games, with a 14-point gap separating them and leaders Manchester City already.
They are seven points behind the top four, and still have a negative goal difference. Based on history, they have no chance of qualifying for the Champions League through the usual means.
Mourinho’s side are faring better in Europe however, sitting second in their group, two points behind Juventus but two ahead of Valencia.
? Charging up for the #UCL! #MUFC pic.twitter.com/mWXnL9A3zl
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 26, 2018
The Portuguese, who admitted United are “not very good on second balls” ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League game with Young Boys, also said he finds it “frustrating” that his players are not doing what he asks of them.
“It’s frustrating because what I want is the team to start strong, is the team to go strong on the opponent, not to be waiting, not to be reactive but proactive,” he said.
“That’s exactly what I want and probably you or the fans, they think ‘oh, Jose told them to start slow’, ‘Jose told them to play nice and easy and wait to see what happens’ or ‘to be losing for then to react’.
Our focus turns to the #UCL. #MUFC pic.twitter.com/EWx13Sv5lQ
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 26, 2018
“It is exactly the opposite thing. I want the team to start strong, I want the team to have a go immediately and it is a bit frustrating.
“It is not a crucial match because if we don’t win we still don’t depend on other results but I want to play from minute one like it’s the last chance we have to qualify. I want to play this game as a knockout game.”