Heir Apparent

I write this post after watching Manchester United beat Inter Milan by two goals last night. The self proclaimed 'special one' was no match for Alex Ferguson's men and tactics.

There has been a lot of talk about who will replace Alex Ferguson when he announces his retirement. I for one am convinced that it will be Jose Mourinho. If you look at the intrinsic quality of the two coaches there are some similarities. Both men deflect the pressure of their teams and take it on to themselves. Both are master tacticians and realize that a football match is not won by the players skill alone. They have a sense of humour but of a different nature. Sir Alex has the amiable British banter, while Jose is more cynical and subtle.

One striking similarity is their attention for detail. In his press conference Jose said he knows everyone at United. He mentioned that spoke to the 'grassman' (groundsman) before the game. It is a reflection on the amount of preparation he puts into each game.

They both have different approaches to the game, but each is a uniquely successful man. I look forward to seeing Mourinho at Old Trafford in the years to come.