Jose: I have a good relationship with Hazard

The Chelsea forward told reporters this week that he would like to work with Mourinho again, after the pair spent two-and-a-half years together at Stamford Bridge.

During that time, they won the Premier League title in 2014/15 – the same season Hazard was voted both the PFA and Football Writers’ Player of the Year.

Speaking in his press conference to preview Saturday's match at Chelsea, Mourinho discussed the mutual respect he shares with his former player and even admitted he would love to bring him to Old Trafford. 

“I think he is a nice kid,” Mourinho said. “We had a good relationship and we were champions together. He was, for the first time, the best player in the Premier League with me, so I think the feelings are good.

“I would love to have him at Manchester United, but I don't think Chelsea would sell him - it's a non-problem because Chelsea are led by experienced and intelligent people in football."

Hazard has been in superb form so far this season and was voted the Premier League’s Player of the Month for September.

The Belgian international has scored seven goals in eight league games, and Mourinho knows how vital he is to Chelsea’s success.

“History says that when Eden Hazard is the best player in the Premier League, Chelsea are the champions. It happened with me, it happened with Antonio [Conte], and this season is still in the beginning of course, but if he is still the best player in the Premier League, which I think he is, until now, then Chelsea are top of the league. He is the kind of player that can make a huge difference.”

Jose has also been impressed with how quickly new Chelsea boss Maurizio Sarri has adapted to the Premier League, since replacing his Italian compatriot Antonio Conte during the summer.

“The results speak for themselves,” Jose said. “Obviously they are not playing in the Champions League but, in the Premier League, the results speak for themselves. They have had very good results, they are top of the league and of course they have lots of good players.”