It seemed like a done deal.
Most reports have been talking about Jose Mourinho as if he’s already in charge of Manchester United, with the former Chelsea boss apparently destined to replace Louis van Gaal in the summer.
But it has now been claimed that is wide of the mark, with the Sunday Mirror claiming Mourinho is resigned to missing out on the job altogether.
The paper claims United’s top order are concerned about the Portuguese struggling to bring through young talent – a feature of both his spells in London, as well as his Real Madrid tenure – and would prefer Ryan Giggs to succeed Louis van Gaal.
But Van Gaal, who has given debuts to more than half a dozen players this season alone, may now see out his contract, which expires in the summer of 2017.
Of course, the situation could all change depending on the outcome of the Old Trafford club’s season.
They currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, but can move level on points with neighbours Manchester City – and close to within two points of Arsenal – with victory over West Bromwich Albion on Sunday afternoon.