Former Manchester United manager, Jose Mourinho, has made a daring claim about the possibility of winning a fourth Premier League title. This comes ahead of his reunion with his former employers in the Europa League.
Mourinho is hopeful that he could still receive a bonus from Manchester United if they win the title. His optimism stems from the possibility of Manchester City facing retrospective action due to alleged financial breaches currently under investigation. If found guilty, City could face severe punishments ranging from docked points and stripped titles to expulsion from top-flight football.
During his two-and-a-half-year tenure at Old Trafford, which ended in December 2018, Mourinho led 144 games and guided the club to 84 wins across all competitions. His first season saw him secure three trophies - The Europa League, The League Cup and The Community Shield - despite finishing in a disappointing sixth place in the league. The following year was trophyless for United but marked an improvement as they finished second in Premier League table behind rivals City under Mourinho's guidance. However, there was still a significant gap between them with 19 points separating both teams.
Potential consequences for Man City
Pep Guardiola’s side is currently embroiled in controversy over alleged financial irregularities. They have been charged with 130 offences including failing to provide accurate financial information and non-cooperation during investigations by Premier League authorities.
The proceedings are expected to conclude by late 2024 when a verdict will be published before either party can appeal triggering another hearing process. If found guilty on multiple charges, Man City may face heavy penalties which could potentially alter past league standings retrospectively.
Dig at United over the bonus
In light of these potential repercussions for Man City, Jose Mourinho has declared that he would be due extra cash from United should the Citizens be found guilty. This is because a retrospective punishment could potentially see United crowned as champions for the season they finished second under Mourinho's management.
Jose Mourinho, Fenerbahçe manager, 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 they have to pay me the bonus and give me the medal!"
Mourinho made these comments ahead of his new side Fenerbahce's Europa League clash with Erik ten Hag's men in Istanbul. While it remains to be seen how the investigation into Manchester City’s alleged financial breaches will unfold, Mourinho’s bold claim adds an intriguing twist to this saga. As sports fans and betting enthusiasts watch closely, only time will tell if Mourinho’s hopeful anticipation becomes a reality.
