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30th Sep 2016

Jose Mourinho explains his touchline row with his own coaching staff

The United boss was seen in a heated discussion with his coaching staff moments before kick off

Simon Lloyd

Those that tuned in for Manchester United’s meeting with European giants Zorya Luhansk will probably have noticed Jose Mourinho’s touchline outburst moments before the game kicked off.

The United boss appeared unhappy with instructions given to Paul Pogba by his assistant, Rui Faria, seconds before the match with the Ukranian side started. After a brief discussion with the manager, Faria consulted two other members of United’s coaching staff, annoying Mourinho even more.

https://youtu.be/ecl8MOYdJns

 

After the match, which United won thanks to a single goal from Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Mourinho explained to BT Sport that the issue had stemmed from last-minute changes Zorya had made to their line-up. These changes had prompted Pogba to ask Faria if his role had changed at set pieces, something Mourinho clearly felt his assistants should have already made the midfielder aware of.

“You know set pieces, organisation,” Mourinho said. “They changed their team before the game and Paul was a bit confused with the changes. And obviously I want my assistants to take care of all the details.”

The 1-0 victory was United’s first of their European campaign following a defeat away at Feyenoord two weeks ago. Their next match in the Europa League sees the visit of Fenerbahce and former striker Robin van Persie.