Mourinho linked with Old Trafford escape clause
OT-bound?
By Chris,
May 31 2010
Speculation suggests that Jose Mourinho has secured an "escape clause" in his Real Madrid contact so the former Chelsea boss can take over at Old Trafford once Sir Alex Ferguson retires. Mourinho has made no secret of his desire to return to England to manage in the future.
The 47-year-old was unveiled as Real coach on Monday after leading Inter Milan to European Cup glory.
The Portuguese coach has penned a four-year deal at the Bernabeu, but mMedia reports insist the contract includes an escape clause which could see Mourinho moving to England after only two seasons.
The clause allegedly stipulates that after spending two years at Madrid, Mourinho will be free to move on if compensation requirements are met.
Mourinho spent three years at Chelsea where he enjoyed a bitter feud with Sir Alex Ferguson.
He has long been considered a leading contender to succeed Sir Alex - and the self-proclaimed "Special One" has never made any secret of his desire to manage in England again.
68-year-old Fergie has given little recent indication of when he may bow out - but it is thought that the mega-confident Mourinho is prepared to manage Madrid until Sir Alex steps down; when he will then seek an immediate switch to Old Trafford.
Bookmakers have priced up Mourinho as favourite to be the next United boss - though punters can still get a price as good as 11/4 with the likes of Sky Bet. Other leading contenders include Martin O'Neill, Laurent Blanc, David Moyes and Carlos Queiroz.
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Would be one of my top 3 candidates to replace SAF whenever the day comes.