Mourinho dismisses rumours of United exit

Speaking at the pre-match press conference for the Reds' UEFA Champions League match against Benfica, the manager was asked about comments that he made to a French TV station regarding the very few modern football managers who remain at single clubs for lengthy periods of time.

Mourinho admitted during that interview that he does not foresee himself finishing his career at Old Trafford, but stated he has no desire to leave the club.

Speaking to reporters, Jose said: “I think you English media have the answer for that because, in one day, it says that I am going to sign a five-year contract, for £1billion per season and then, the next day, you say that I am leaving and going to PSG. I think that is the answer. The answer is that nothing is happening.

"I am not signing a new five-year contract and I am not leaving for PSG. I am at Manchester United and I have a contract. And that is it.”

Expanding on the subject, Mourinho said: “The only thing that I told is true and there was not a misinterpretation of my words was I am not going to end my career at Manchester United." 

He added: “I was asked how is it possible in modern football that any manager is going to last 15 to 20 years in the same club. I think Arsene Wenger is the last one at Arsenal. I think it is impossible for us with everything that surrounds the job, all of the pressures that surround the job.

"I think it is impossible to last for so long. If, in this moment, I wanted to finish my career in two, three, four or five years then I would say yes, I want to finish my career with Manchester United.

“But I think I am going to be a manager for 15 more years, minimum, in the job, and I think it is impossible to stay for 17 years in the same club. I think it is the impossible mission. Even if you want to, you can try, but I think it is impossible. Wenger is the last one. That was my answer. I don't think I am going to end my career at Manchester United. That was my answer.

"Some people tried to be clever, some people tried to be malicious and they said many different things. But the reality is simple. I did not sign a new contract but I am not thinking about leaving."