Former Manchester United star Eric Cantona believes Jose Mourinho is not the ideal fit to coach the Red Devils on a long-term basis. The Portuguese tactician was appointed the club’s manager during the summer of 2016 and he thereafter enjoyed a strong first season where United won both the League Cup and Europa League.

However, in his second campaign, Mourinho could only muster a runner-up finish in the Premier League while his team also lost out on the FA Cup to Chelsea in the final. Since then, United have started the third season under his management in a rather worrying fashion and Cantona has now voiced his concern over the Portuguese’s style of play.

He said: “I love Jose. He is a great manager who has won so many things, and he will win more, maybe even this season, maybe the Champions League. But he is not the right man for Manchester United, a great club that will always be great. They will win things, I know they will. But the way they play? Not good.

“The manager has them playing the wrong way for the fans. No fun, no creativity. United teams should play in a joyful way, with enjoyment and excitement. I want to see players free to express themselves, to try to win games instead of being sent out not to lose. I like Mourinho. He has a good personality but not for United.”

“The Portuguese tactician had been desperate to strengthen the central defensive department during the summer transfer window“ but the request was not fulfilled by the club’s hierarchy, who were reluctant to pay over the odds for a new recruit. As such, Mourinho had to adjust with the options at
“hand and the ploy “has definitely hampered the club, who are already nine points off the top of the standings.

Amidst this, reports have emerged that Mourinho could be handed a kitty of around £100m to strengthen the squad during the winter period with a central defender and centre-forward among the prime priorities for the Old Trafford outfit.