Chelsea’s European Absence Helping Them – Mourinho
Ahead of Monday night’s crucial FA Cup clash at Stamford Bridge, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has taken a swipe at his former side.
The Portuguese believes Chelsea are in a position of privilege as they do not have to deal with both European and domestic competitions in England.
Mourinho was sacked last season by Chelsea after a disappointing start, which left the Blues languishing in the bottom half of the table. They finished 10th in the Premier League and failed to qualify for the Europa League.
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Meanwhile, Antonio Conte who joined the London club at the start of the season, has led the club 10 points clear at the top of the league but Mourinho suggested a lack of European commitment had aided their title charge.
“The most difficult thing to have is time to work, and they have time to work,” the Portuguese said.
“They are in a position of privilege — the same privilege that Liverpool had a couple of years ago and they almost won the Premier League — but I don’t want to say that they don’t deserve credit for it.
“They choose a certain style of play that I think is very adapted to the qualities of these players.
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The Old Trafford club lost 4-0 at Stamford Bridge last October, with Mourinho saying his former club did not provide any extra motivation.
“Am I sadder to lose against Chelsea than against another team? No. Am I happier to win against Chelsea than another team? No,” the 54-year-old added.
“I am focused on Man United and I know the work I did there, I know what I did but I am the kind of guy that I move and have no regrets and I am not looking for bad feelings at all.”
United host Russian side Rostov in the second leg of the Europa League on Thursday before a trip to The Riverside to face Middlesbrough in the league on Sunday.
