Mourinho Still Eyeing 2018 Premier League Title Amid City’s Legal Woes

TDT | Manama

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Former Manchester United manager José Mourinho has cheekily hinted that he hasn’t given up on claiming the 2018 Premier League title. In typical Mourinho fashion, the Fenerbahce boss quipped about the ongoing legal case involving Manchester City, which could lead to retrospective punishment for financial rule breaches between 2009 and 2018.

Mourinho’s Manchester United finished second to City in the 2017-18 season, which was his last full campaign at Old Trafford. With City now facing 115 charges related to financial irregularities, Mourinho jokingly suggested that he might yet pocket a title-winning bonus from six years ago.

"Maybe We Still Win That League"

Ahead of Fenerbahce’s Europa League clash with Manchester United in Istanbul, Mourinho was asked about his old club and couldn't resist bringing up City’s legal troubles. In his usual theatrical manner, he floated the idea of United retroactively being crowned champions if City were to be stripped of their title.

"As you know, we won the Europa League [in 2017] and we finished second in the Premier League [in 2018]," Mourinho said. "I think we still have a chance to win that league because maybe they punish Man City with points, and maybe we win that league and then they have to pay me the bonus and give me the medal."

It was classic Mourinho—mixing humor with sharp undertones—during a 20-minute press conference that reminded everyone why he remains one of the most engaging personalities in football.

Reflecting on His United Tenure

Mourinho also took the opportunity to reflect on his time at Manchester United, where he spent two-and-a-half seasons before being dismissed in December 2018. In a rare moment of candor, he praised the club for sticking with current manager Erik ten Hag during their recent difficult period, contrasting it with his own experience.

"I wish the best to Man United since the moment I left," Mourinho remarked. "They keep faith in the coach, they support him, and he’s staying season after season. That means stability and trust. That was different in relation to me."

Though United’s current struggles are evident, Mourinho expressed no schadenfreude. Instead, he conveyed a genuine fondness for the club and its fans, suggesting that he left with "good feelings" despite his eventual sacking.

Mourinho vs United, Yet Again

When asked about Fenerbahce’s upcoming clash with United, Mourinho was characteristically defiant. He acknowledged the challenge but emphasized the importance of home advantage and the backing of 35,000 passionate Fenerbahce supporters.

"We are going to try and we can do it, but there is a gap," he said. Mourinho, who has never lost a home match against United, added that his previous encounters with the Red Devils were with "big clubs," but Fenerbahce would need everything to go their way.

Mourinho’s Admiration for Ferguson

The press conference also offered a touching moment when Mourinho was asked about Sir Alex Ferguson, who is set to step down from his ambassadorial role at Manchester United at the end of the season. Despite their competitive past, Mourinho’s respect for Ferguson remains evident.

"He is amazing, incredible," Mourinho said. "When my Netflix documentary comes out, you will know why I have so much respect. He has the love and respect of every Man United fan around the world."

Mourinho’s words were a reminder of the unique bond shared between two of football’s most iconic figures, despite Mourinho’s turbulent time at Old Trafford.

Not Done with the Premier League

Despite his current role in Turkey, Mourinho hinted that his Premier League journey might not be over just yet. He mentioned that sooner or later Manchester United would find success, adding with a sly grin, "Hopefully before one day I go back to the Premier League and they become my opponent."

Mourinho may be in Istanbul, but it’s clear that his mind—and heart—still have unfinished business in English football.