Mourinho's U-turn: the 'sliding doors' moment that shaped United's post-Ferguson era

According to BBC Sport, Manchester United came close to appointing Jose Mourinho as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor — before the Portuguese made a dramatic U-turn. The inside story paints a 'sliding doors' picture of a deal that was initially agreed, only to fall apart when Mourinho said no.

The decision had a profound impact on the direction of the club. With Ferguson stepping down after nearly 27 years in charge, United turned to a different candidate, and the planned succession was thrown into uncertainty. The fallout shaped several turbulent seasons, with the club struggling to recapture its former dominance.

Mourinho, of course, would eventually arrive at Old Trafford years later, but by then the landscape had changed. The BBC Sport report highlights how that earlier 'yes, then no' moment altered the timing and context of his eventual appointment — and why the missed opportunity haunted both parties.

Readers can find related match highlights from that era on this site, alongside ongoing coverage of Manchester United's post-Ferguson journey.