TheCable

Ed Woodard, the Manchester United vice-chairman, has confirmed Jose Mourinho has the new manager, declaring: “Jose is quite simply the best manager in the game today.”

He replaces Loius van Gaal, who was sacked on Monday after winning the FA Cup.

“He has won trophies and inspired players in countries across Europe and, of course, he knows the Premier League very well, having won three titles here,” he said.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome him to Manchester United. His track record of success is ideal to take the Club forward.”

Mourinho, who has the option for a further year on his deal, said: “To become Manchester United manager is a special honour in the game. It is a club known and admired throughout the world.

“There is a mystique and a romance about it which no other club can match.

“I have always felt an affinity with Old Trafford; it has hosted some important memories for me in my career and I have always enjoyed a rapport with the United fans.

“I’m looking forward to being their manager and enjoying their magnificent support in the coming years.”

Mourinho signed a three-year deal worth of £36million on Thursday after LVG was sacked after two underwhelming years at Old Trafford.

The 53-year-old Portuguese agreed terms to become Louis van Gaal’s successor, accepting a three-year deal worth £12million-a-year.