Jose Mourinho believes David Moyes will prove successful for Manchester United.
Sir Alex Ferguson finally called time on his 26 years at Old Trafford earlier this week, when he announced he would stand down at the end of the season. With a trophy haul which includes 13 league titles, two UEFA Champions League, Five FA Cups and four League Cups, the Scot is sure to be a hard act to follow for his successor.
So that the Reds have appointed Moyes, who failed to lift a single trophy during his 11-year stint at Everton, has raised a few eyebrows. But the 50-year-old was the unanimous choice of the United board, and a personal recommendation from Ferguson. And Mourinho expects the former Preston North End boss to win over his doubters.
“I think David Moyes is a great choice. I like him as a person, I like his character as a manager,” said the Portuguese coach. “I believe Manchester United will support him, I think he has the qualities to do a good job. I wish Sir Alex a happy life, and I wish David a successful career at Old Trafford.”
Mourinho was installed as second favourite to succeed Ferguson, with his departure from Real Madrid looking certain this summer. The 50-year-old, though, has been strongly linked with a return to Chelsea, where he won two league titles, an FA Cup and two League Cups between 2004 and 2007. And he has again hinted at his desire to return to Stamford Bridge to replace Rafael Benitez in the coming weeks.
“When Sir Alex called me to give me the honour of knowing from him his decision, I was surprised and sad,” he added. “We are good friends, and my good friends know which club I would like to manage when I finish my work at Real Madrid.”
