Manchester United officially announce Mourinho as manager, FINALLY!

Years ago, in fact on the night of 26th May 2004, following the final whistle of the Manchester United vs FC Porto Champions league semi-final game, just moments after a certain Jose Mourinho ran the length of the pitch in celebration. Rubbing it in the noses of Old Trafford faithful that they had just been knocked out of the elite competition by a little known young handsome egocentric coach, nobody ever thought this day would come to pass.

However, reality today is that United fans led by its chief executive Ed Woodward are celebrating his capture as their new manager. Woodward even reckons Manchester United have secured the "best manager in the game" after announcing his appointment on Friday morning.

The Special One was finally confirmed on a three-year deal following months of speculation, making it one of the worst kept secrets in the history of football.

Mourinho takes over from Louis van Gaal who was sacked just 2 days after winnning the first trophy post Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement in 2013 and after failing to qualify for next season's Champions League - ending the season in 5th despite spending over a quarter of a billion.

The Portuguese was sacked just months after he won the Premier League title with Chelsea.

Speaking after the announcement, United chief Woodward said,: "José is quite simply the best manager in the game today.

"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.

"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 also has the option of a further 12 months inserted in his contract, 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. (Chelsea fans feeing betrayed right now)

"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."