'No other club can match Man Utd's mystique and romance'

Jose Mourinho says there is a “mystique and a romance” about Manchester United which no other club can match after being appointed as the club’s new manager on a three-year deal. 

The Portuguese replaces Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford and will re-open his rivalry with Pep Guardiola next season, who is taking over from Manuel Pellegrini at Manchester City. 

Speaking to United’s official website, Mourinho 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.

"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."