Scott McTominay has revealed why he believes Jose Mourinho is a "real-life legend" and what he said on the day of his Manchester United sacking.
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Mourinho gave McTominay his United debutDevastated at Old Trafford sackingScot reveals what he said the day he leftGettyWHAT HAPPENED?
Mourinho took over at United in May 2016 and led them to Carabao Cup and Europa League success but was sacked after a poor run of results in December 2018. While many do not look back on that time with too much happiness, Red Devils midfielder McTominay is still a huge fan of the Portuguese. Now, the Scottish international has revealed what was said when the pair crossed paths the day the former Chelsea manager was given his marching orders.
AdvertisementGetty ImagesWHAT SCOTT MCTOMINAY SAID
McTominay, who made his senior debut during Mourinho's tenure, told the High Performance Podcast: "On the day he left, I saw him in the corridor and he invited me in. I didn't know what to say. I was gutted. It was hard.
"This guy means so much to me and has given me all the dreams I could ever wish for, and now he's gone. I didn't know what to think. I was umming and aahing. I just said 'Thank you for the opportunity, you've been a real-life legend for me, good luck for what you do next'.
"We are still in touch sometimes, if I've had a good game he lets me know. He'll text saying 'well done kid' as he always calls me. They were great times and I'm so grateful for him."
Getty ImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE
While Mourinho's stock has fallen over the years, culminating in his sacking from Roma this month, he is one of the most-decorated managers of all time and many players have revelled in the opportunity to work under him. And it is clear McTominay is one of his many admirers.
WHAT NEXT?
In the short term, McTominay is likely to feature for United under current manager Erik ten Hag Erik ten Hag in their fourth round FA Cup clash away to League Two side Newport County on Sunday. Mourinho, on the other hand, will likely look for a new managerial role soon.