José Mourinho has reignited debate about Manchester United’s long-standing midfield problems, claiming that the club’s failure to secure a particular defensive midfielder during his time at Old Trafford contributed to issues that have continued for years. The former United manager reportedly believes Luke Shaw’s attacking qualities were never properly protected because the club ignored his preferred transfer target.
Mourinho allegedly wanted N’Golo Kanté in 2017, viewing the Frenchman as the powerful ball-winner capable of providing balance and covering spaces whenever Shaw moved forward. Although United eventually signed Nemanja Matić from Chelsea, the Portuguese coach reportedly considered Kanté his first choice, with Casemiro another possible option.
The former manager’s comments come as United face another difficult period following Michael Carrick’s dismissal. Their poor league form has exposed defensive weaknesses and a lack of control in midfield, particularly when opponents launch quick counterattacks.
Mourinho also appears to believe that United’s repeated managerial changes have failed to address deeper structural problems. Managers have come and gone, but questions surrounding recruitment, squad balance and the club’s footballing direction remain.
His previous warnings about the limitations of the squad have resurfaced as United prepare for another rebuilding attempt. With Mauricio Pochettino reportedly close to taking charge, the challenge will be fixing the weaknesses that have troubled successive managers.
Ultimately, Mourinho’s message is that changing the manager alone will not solve United’s problems unless the club also addresses the foundations of its squad.
