Mourinho says he agreed to replace Ferguson at Man Utd in 2013
Jose Mourinho has confirmed that he agreed to replace Sir Alex Ferguson as Manchester United manager in 2013 but ultimately chose to rejoin Chelsea instead. Ferguson corroborated the story, expressing disappointment but understanding Mourinho's emotional decision to honor his word to Chelsea.
Why it matters
This revelation uncovers a pivotal 'what if' moment in modern football history, detailing the behind-the-scenes dynamics and personal decisions that shaped the trajectories of two major clubs and a legendary manager's career.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Jose Mourinho has spoken about why he decided not to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United
After years of speculation, Jose Mourinho has confirmed that he agreed to replace Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United in 2013, before changing his mind and re-joining Chelsea instead.
"When I left Real Madrid, I signed to go to Manchester United after Sir Alex," the 63-year-old coach - now back at Real for a second spell - said in a new Netflix documentary series about his career.
"He was offered the job, yes," confirmed Ferguson, who won 13 Premier League titles over 26 years at Old Trafford before retiring in 2013.
"I sat him down and explained the situation," he added: "As far as I was concerned, he was accepting. And then, within hours, it changed."
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