MANCHESTER: Jose Mourinho has kicked rumors he is about to quit Manchester United into Row Z and insisted he is committed to the Old Trafford club.
The Portuguese is midway through a three-year contract and is currently in talks to extend it. His commitment, however, has been questioned as he continues to live in a hotel rather than buy a house in the area.
Mourinho said: “If you want to ask me directly if I see myself next season at Manchester United, then I say I see myself [here],” the 54-year-old said. “As I said when I arrived, I am going to leave when the club wants me to leave because I have no intention to leave at all. I want to stay. I do not see any reason not to stay.”
Mourinho has looked an unhappy figure in recent weeks as United’s title bid has faltered and they suffered a shock League Cup exit at Championship side Bristol City.
There have been suggestions that Mourinho has been disappointed at the relative lack of spending power at his disposal, claims which he also denied.
And Mourinho was upset at suggestions that his decision to live in a hotel, rather than buying a home in Manchester, is a sign of a lack of professionalism or commitment to the job.
Mourinho is in early talks over a contract extension with executive vice chairman Ed Woodward and believes he will remain beyond his current deal. The basic three-year contract ends in the summer of 2019, although the club holds a one-year option to extend.
The United boss also defended himself against suggestions he may have lost his passion for the intense world of top-level football.
“Because I don’t behave like a clown, it means I have lost my passion?” said Mourinho
“I prefer to behave as I am, more mature, better for myself and the team. You do not have to behave like a crazy guy. It is not what you do in front of the cameras.”
United expect to welcome back forward Romelu Lukaku after he suffered a suspected concussion against Southampton last week for the Friday evening cup tie with Derby.
Jose Mourinho slams Man United exit claims
-
{{#bullets}}
- {{value}} {{/bullets}}