Fenerbahce manager José Mourinho playfully hinted at the possibility of clinching a fourth Premier League winner’s medal, should Manchester City be stripped of their title. Speaking ahead of his team’s Europa League match against his former club Manchester United, Mourinho reflected on the support Erik ten Hag has received from the club, which he felt was lacking during his time at Old Trafford.
Mourinho, who was dismissed by United just before Christmas in 2018, had previously led the team to both Europa League and League Cup victories in his first season, and finished second in the league the following year—19 points adrift of City. This achievement, he claims, remains one of his proudest moments. With ongoing investigations into alleged financial rule violations by Manchester City, Mourinho remarked, “If they’re punished with points, I could potentially receive that bonus and medal.”
When asked about United’s evolution, Mourinho responded thoughtfully. “Honestly, I haven’t spent a minute worrying about it. I wish the best for Manchester United since my departure. I left with good feelings towards the club and the fans, so it’s disheartening to see them struggling. But dwelling on the past doesn’t help.” He praised the club’s continued faith in Ten Hag, stating, “They are providing him with stability and trust, allowing him the necessary conditions to succeed. That stands in contrast to my experience.”
Mourinho also expressed confidence in United’s potential, saying, “There’s a good chance they could still compete for the league, depending on what unfolds with Manchester City.”
As for the Europa League, he named Manchester United and Tottenham as the frontrunners despite United’s rocky start. “With this new format, top teams can qualify even if they lose a few matches,” he explained. “Top teams like United and Tottenham are certainly favorites to win.”
Reflecting on the difference in competition levels, Mourinho noted, “The Premier League has a unique quality and intensity. Tomorrow, we’ll face one of the strongest teams.”
After a challenging end to his tenure in England with Tottenham, where he was let go just days before a cup final, Mourinho signed a lucrative two-year deal with Fenerbahce this summer but hasn’t ruled out a Premier League return. Addressing United’s challenges under Ten Hag, he stated, “It’s not a bluff; they have a better team than their results suggest. I see the potential for success. Hopefully, it comes soon, before I return to the Premier League and United becomes one of my rivals.”
