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      Chelsea cult hero looks like he hasn’t aged a day as he’s spotted in new role at AC Milan

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      A CHELSEA cult hero looks like he hasn’t aged a day since retirement.The ex-player in question was on the touchline for AC Milan’s 3-1 win over Madrid in the Champions League last night.The Chelsea cult hero, left, is now an assistant at AC MilanHe remains a popular figure among Chelsea fans, having played for the club for nine years between 2004 and 2013.The former full-back won three Premier League titles, as well as the Champions League in 2012 and Europa League with the Blues in 2013.After winning Europe’s top competition with Porto in 2004, he followed Jose Mourinho from Portugal to West London a few months later.The 45-year-old is now an assistant coach at AC Milan.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSIf you haven’t already guessed, the cult hero in question is, of course, Paulo Ferreira.Ferreira followed new Milan boss Paulo Fonseca from Lille in the summer.And his new club were responsible for Carlo Ancelotti’s second European defeat of the season, as Madrid suffered back-to-back losses at the Bernabeu. But Ferreira could’ve been mistaken for a current player on Tuesday evening.Most read in FootballFerreira spent nine seasons at ChelseaFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe 62-capped Portugal international was seen hugging Ancelotti and former Chelsea striker Alvaro Morata, who scored on the night, at full-time.And he still sports his signature jet-black locks, tan and light stubbled beard.Robert Grieve reacts as Celtic secure stunning Champions League win over RB LeipzigHe made 141 Prem appearances, providing four assists from full-back.Ferreira began working with Chelsea’s loan players after his retirement in 2013.He was also a club ambassador before ending his 18-year association with Stamford Bridge after Roman Abramovich put the club up for sale in 2022.The assistant coach linked up with his compatriot Fonseca at Ligue 1 side Lillie in 2023, before moving to AC Milan with him in July.The Rossoneri sit 18th in the Champions League table, having won two and lost two to Liverpool and Bayer Leverkusen this term.New Champions League format is a snorefestBy Dan KingUEFA sold the idea of expanding the Champions League from 32 to 36 teams, with each playing eight games instead of six in the opening phase, as a way of creating more competitiveness and excitement.The biggest clubs would have two matches against their peers, rather than having to wait until the knockout stage to meet.The smaller clubs would meet teams of a similar level twice and have a chance of tasting victory that was so hard to achieve if you were the bottom seed in a group of four.Ignoring for a moment the fact that the real motivation was the simple equation of more games = more money, the theory itself already looks flawed.None of the matches between European giants has delivered a compelling contest yet.And why would they? At the start of the long season with more matches in it, why would any team with ambitions to win things in the spring, go out all guns blazing in the autumn?Especially when they know they have six games NOT against big sides to make sure they accrue enough points to qualify at least for the play-off round (and even more games).There is even less jeopardy than before.Read the full column on the Champions League format fail and why everyone – including YOU – needs a rethink. More

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      Chelsea ace Enzo Fernandez eyed by TWO European giants for shock transfer after £107m midfielder loses starting XI spot

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      TWO European giants are prepared to make an audacious swoop for Enzo Fernandez – whose future at Chelsea is growing increasingly unclear.The Argentine was a shock admission from the Londoners lineup for their weekend clash against Manchester United.Enzo Fernandez was left out of Chelsea’s XI against Man Utd on SundayCredit: ReutersThe Argentine is being eyed by two European giantsCredit: GettyChelsea coach Enzo Maresca insists Fernandez remains in his plansCredit: ReutersManager Enzo Maresca opted for Moises Caicdeo and Romeo Lavia instead saying he prefers their physicality.But the snub leaves a huge question mark over Fernandez’s future at the club.SunSport understands the midfielder is determined to fight for his place at Chelsea. But a source said he has no intention of sitting on the bench for months on end if he falls down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLAnd Inter Milan and Barcelona – two of Europe’s biggest clubs – are now both monitoring the situation.The midfielder has copped flak ever since Chelsea signed him from Benfica for a British record £107million in 2023.TalkSPORT host Rory Jennings claimed recently that he should “never play for Chelsea again” and that he is potentially the “worst” signing in Premier League history.But Maresca has publicly spoken about the sympathy he has for Fernandez’s struggles to live up to his price tag, not least given the turmoil in his personal life.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSFernandez, 23, recently split from his childhood sweetheart Valentina Cervantes to live on his own – despite them having a daughter and son together.Maresca said ahead of Chelsea’s clash with United: “They are human beings and if you pay £100m that is not my problem. Premier League’s Biggest Spenders: Top 10 SeasonsFernandez has no goals or assists this season”You want to buy me then you pay that money.”That does not mean that every game you have to be the best. “At the end of the day they are football players and they cannot always be at the top level.The Argentine international recently split from his partnerCredit: ReutersChelsea player ratings vs Man UtdCHELSEA came from a goal down to rescue a point at Old Trafford.Robert Sanchez brought down Rasmus Hojlund with 20 minutes remaining and Bruno Fernandes rolled in what looked to be a decisive spot kick.But Chelsea hit back swiftly as Moises Caicedo’s sweet strike flew into the bottom corner.Here is how SunSport’s Lloyd Canfield saw the performances of the Chelsea players in the 1-1 draw…Robert Sanchez – 3Made a few really good saves in the first half, and was much improved after a poor performance last time out against Newcastle.That was until he gave away a reckless penalty on Rasmus Hojlund, which was easily dispatched by Bruno Fernandes.His mistakes are starting to cost Chelsea time after time.Malo Gusto – 2Got in good positions in the first half, but was often wasteful when he got there.Was booked for a late challenge on Manuel Ugarte, before being hooked for Cucurella at half-time after an awful overall showing.Wesley Fofana – 6A strong performance at the back was marred only by the Frenchman letting Rasmus Hojlund escape him before winning a penalty for his side.Showed brilliant recovery pace throughout the game, and made some crucial challenges too.Levi Colwill – 6That was a strong defensive showing from the Chelsea number 6.For a player with a passing range as impressive as his is, it would’ve been nice to see him use it more as Chelsea looked for a goal.Reece James – 5Improved this week, but still showed signs of rustiness as he gave the ball away in dangerous positions a few times.More effective on the right side in Malo Gusto’s position, and more comfortable there as expected with Marc Cucurella on the left.Another 90 minutes in the tank is fantastic news for Chelsea fans.Moises Caicedo – 9Scored a certain contender for goal of the month with a sensational volley from the edge of the box to level the scoring for his side.Effective in breaking up play for the Blues once more, and showed why he is worthy of the £100m price tag Chelsea paid for him.Romeo Lavia – 8Another impressive midfield performance from the Belgian, who shows prowess beyond his years on and off the ball.Seems the perfect pivot partner for Moises Caicedo, and people need to start talking about how Manchester City let him go for peanuts.Noni Madueke – 6Unfortunate to hit the post in the 13th minute with a header following a corner.Worked hard defensively throughout the game too, but was unable to really put his creative abilities to the test.Cole Palmer – 7In the first half, his signature ‘Palmer touch’ got the away supporters off their feet, and he was Chelsea’s most creative outlet on the day.Unable to add another goal or assist to his impressive tally this season, but still had a solid showing.Pedro Neto – 5Showed flashes of brilliance on the left-hand side, and came close with a shot across goal in the second half.Was moved to the right-hand side in the second half, but it was much of the same from there.Nicolas Jackson – 5Pretty invisible up front for Chelsea today.Worked hard and tracked back well when required to, but fans were left confused as to why Christopher Nkunku was left on the bench.In fairness to him, could’ve had an assist if Enzo Fernandez could finish his dinner.SubsMarc Cucurella (for Gusto, 46 mins) – 5A solid showing on the left-hand side. Chelsea look a better team with him in the 11.Mykhailo Mudryk (for Madueke, 70 mins) – 4Tried to light things up on the left hand side, but his spark wasn’t enough to win the game for his side.Enzo Fernandez (for Lavia, 70 mins) – 2Missed an absolute sitter which would have won his team the game after coming on. Looks very short on confidence.Click here to read more Chelsea stories.”At this moment Enzo is not playing but there is no problem with Enzo. “The noise about Enzo is because clubs pay so much money for them, people expect they will always be the best. That is not so.”The only reason he is not playing is just because the physicality I prefer is from (Moises) Caicedo and Romeo Lavia.” More

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      Chelsea legend Frank Lampard lined up for shock new job at Jose Mourinho’s former club

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      CHELSEA legend Frank Lampard has been touted as a potential candidate to take over as Roma manager.Lampard, 46, has been a free agent ever since 2023 when he underwent a short stint as the Blues’ caretaker boss.Chelsea legend Frank Lampard has been linked with the Roma jobCredit: GettyLampard could be managing the same club as Jose Mourinho coachedCredit: GettyLampard and Mourinho enjoyed tremendous success together at ChelseaCredit: GettyAnd according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the ex-Everton boss could return to management by joining Roma.The Giallorossi may soon be needing a new manager after Sunday’s 3-2 loss at Verona.Ivan Juric took over as manager in September when he replaced club legend Daniele De Rossi at the helm.But Juric has come under fire after losing four out of his first 10 matches, of which he also won four.Read More on FootballAnd now Italian sources claim Roma are already looking at potential new candidates to take over at the dugout, with Paulo Sousa appearing as a favourite.In fact, the Serie A giants have contacted Sousa as well as other candidates, such as ex-Manchester City boss Roberto Mancini and Leicester legend Claudio Ranieri.And now Lampard has also emerged as a potential successor to Juric.The same source claims the Friedkin Group, who own a majority stake at the club, were advised to consider the former England international by people close to them at Everton.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe Friedkins are set to complete a takeover of the Toffees, where the midfield great worked as manager for a year until his departure in 2023.Roma have yet to make a final decision but Lampard is “certainly” considered.Fans spot Frank Lampard’s reaction to Roy Keane fuming at being called ‘Cardi B’ for outfit choice at Man Utd vs ChelseaThat would see the former City star taking over the same club his legendary boss Jose Mourinho managed.Lampard and Mourinho enjoyed tremendous success together at Chelsea as they won two Premier League titles, one FA Cup and two League Cups.The Special One also stood out at the Olimpico as he won the first ever Europa Conference League trophy with the Roman giants in 2022. More

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      Callum Wilson wanted by four Premier League clubs in January transfer with Newcastle set to cash in on injury-prone star

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      CALLUM WILSON is set to become a target for FOUR Premier League clubs in January, SunSport understands.The Newcastle striker has hardly featured this term due to an injury he sustained in pre-season.Callum Wilson is set to become a target for four Premier League clubs in JanuaryCredit: AlamyBut the England forward is close to returning and now a string of clubs are monitoring the player.We can reveal Fulham, Crystal Palace, Brenftord and Southampton are all monitoring the player.It’s thought Brentford are in pole position and see Wilson as the ideal replacement for Ivan Toney.Fulham, meanwhile, are keen to add to their striking options and have money to spend.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWilson is thought to be open-minded to a switch having found himself playing second-fiddle to Alexander Isak.Now 32, it makes sense for Newcastle to move Wilson on not least because injury problems continue to plague him.A back issue kept him out of action during pre-season, and he hasn’t been available for the beginning of the new Premier League campaign.The £46,000-a-week striker has been a great servant for Newcastle, leading the line expertly and being hailed as “incredible” by Howe last year.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSBut only nine league starts came his way in 2024/25, and he’s keen to try and secure more game-time.Wilson’s current Magpies deal also expires next summer, which means now is the last opportunity to receive a fee for his signature, prior to losing him on a free in 2025 instead.The forward has 48 goals in 108 appearances for Newcastle since joining from Bournemouth in 2020. Chelsea vs Newcastle: Player Ratings More

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      Man Utd and Chelsea ‘line up stunning Vinicius Jr transfer swoop’ after Real Madrid star snubs talks over new contract

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      MANCHESTER UNITED and Chelsea are among several clubs eyeing a future move for Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr, according to reports.The Brazilian, 24, has had another stunning year in Spain, and was widely expected to win the Ballon d’Or before being pipped by Rodri.Vinicius Jr will have two years remaining on his contract at the end of the seasonCredit: RexVinicius Jr remains under contract in the Spanish capital until 2027.But according to Spanish outlet Relevo, the winger recently snubbed fresh contract talks – putting several clubs on alert.Among his potential suitors are claimed to be Premier League duo Man Utd and Chelsea.But both sides would face stiff competition, even if Real were to entertain selling their star man.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAlso interested are French champions Paris Saint-Germain.Real Madrid have a strained relationship with PSG chiefs, given their protracted pursuit of Kylian Mbappe over several years.The Ligue 1 side would love to get back at Real Madrid by prising away Vinicius Jr in similar circumstances.Real chiefs are said to be desperate to avoid this situation.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSVinicius Jr also has significant interest in Saudi Arabia.During the summer, the Public Investment Fund were claimed to have made an eye-watering proposal.Watch Jude Bellingham’s expletive-laden instructions to Mbappe and Co at half-time of Real Madrid drawThe deal would have seen Vinicius Jr sign for Al-Ahli, earning a staggering €1bn (£843.98m) across five seasons.Real Madrid are determined to hold onto their star man long-term and are eager to demonstrate how much they value him.But for now, contract talks remain on hold.Vinicius Jr has won three LaLiga titles, two Champions Leagues, a Copa del Rey and two Club World Cups with Real Madrid.Last season he scored 24 goals and laid on 11 assists in all competitions, with figures across his club preparing for him to win the Ballon d’Or.He was said to be “devastated” after missing out – cancelling a huge party, with Real Madrid also snubbing the entire bash in solidarity. More

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      Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez SPLITS from mother of his two children to ‘live alone’ as she puts statement on Instagram

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      ENZO FERNANDEZ has split from his childhood sweetheart and the mother of his two children.The Chelsea star’s long-term partner, Valentina Cervantes posted a message on her Instagram confirming their breakup.Enzo Fernandez has split from long-term partner Valentina CervantesThey have two children together, born in 2020 and 2023Fernandez is said to have told her he wants to ‘live alone’She has 1.4 million followers on InstagramAnnouncing the news, influencer Cervantes indicated the 23-year-old and her have had an amicable separation.Argentine journalist Julieta Argenta claimed that Fernandez told her he wanted to “live alone”.Cervantes, who has 1.4 million followers on Instagram, said: “With Enzo today we say distance from each other. “But we will always be family and support each other through everything. READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”Because there are two kids in the middle that need a lot of our love for them.”I know the person and excellent father Enzo is, and the heart he has. And that’s enough for me. “They don’t want to create wars where there aren’t any.”They had met in their homeland of Argentina, with two children together born in March 2020 and October 2023.Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSShe had followed him firstly from River Plater to Benfica and then to Chelsea when he joined in January 2023 for a then-record-breaking £107million transfer.Only days ago the midfielder posted a picture to his Instagram page celebrating the birthday of his youngest son, Benjamin.Gary Neville slams Chelsea pair who ‘aren’t kidding anybody’ and look ‘worried to death’ Argenta’s full post on social media adding context, read: “He told her he wants to live life on his own. “They’re still family, but he feels the need to experience the stage he skipped by choosing family early on.”The major decision has come with Fernandez recently being dropped to the bench under Enzo Maresca, with Renato Veiga preferred in midfield in the Blues’ last two Premier League games.Fernandez captained Chelsea in the early weeks of the season and during Wednesday’s League Cup clash against Newcastle, but saw was on the wrong side of a 2-0 scoreline.He came under fire in the summer following Argentina’s Copa America victory after posting a video of himself and his Argentina team-mates chanting a sick discriminatory song.Fernandez came under fire from his team-mates including Wesley Fofana for the “uninhibited racism” shown in the video.He issued a grovelling apology on social media following the vile act, but escaped an FA ban for the racism storm.Chelsea ratings vs NewcastleCHELSEA were dumped out the Carabao Cup by Newcastle.The 2-0 loss came after the Blues made 11 changes to their starting line-up.SunSport’s Craig Mahood reveals which players might have done enough to keep their place next time.Filip Jorgensen – 6Nervy start when flapping at an early cross and a couple of wayward kicks going out.Struggled in parts with the ball at his feet including a pass straight to Tonali in the first half. Not much to do in the second half.Axel Disasi – 6Looked uncomfortable for large spells at right-back in duels with Joelinton in the first half and couldn’t sort his feet out when scoring an own goal.Didn’t have much defending to do after the break but offered little in attack.Tosin Adarabioyo – 6Best of the back line but not a difficult task. Looks like a player is there if he can get more minutes as marshalled Isak well for much of the contest.Benoit Badiashile – 5Shocker of a pass to Veiga for Newcastle’s opener before being booked for a foul on Krafth.Terrible touch right on half time let Gordon clear and fortunate Willock missed from close range.Marc Cucurella – 6Huffed and puffed down the left-hand side and defended reasonably well against Gordon for most of the night.Tried to link with Mudryk but a frustrating night meant he didn’t get as involved.Enzo Fernandez – 6Chelsea skipper saw plenty of the ball but didn’t create much of note on it.Looked to be missing the creative spark that would normally play alongside him in there.Renato Veiga – 6Largely anonymous in the middle as kept possession moving but was caught on it for the opening Newcastle goal, though not really his fault.Stung the palms of Pope late on but didn’t create much in that position.Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – 5Should’ve scored in opening 90 seconds with glorious chance.On the fringes of the game throughout and struggled to get involved. Hooked before the hour.Mykhailo Mudryk – 7Quiet first half hour before bursting clear of Krafth later in half. Appeared to gainconfidence in the second half and was a threat when he did get the ball on the left.His final ball missing a few times but would’ve had an assist or two on another evening. Chelsea will be hoping this isn’t a flash in the pan.Joao Felix – 5Another one that showed very, very brief flashes. Should’ve scored when clean through with 15 minutes to go which might’ve changed the game.Frustrations of a difficult night shown when booked for dissent in closing stages.SubsNoni Madueke – 6Replaced ineffective Dewsbury-Hall for the final half hour.Claimed for a penalty when pushed over by Gordon. Was a threat when in possession but struggled against Newcastle’s low block.Replaced ineffective Dewsbury-Hall for the final half hour.Claimed for a penalty when pushed over by Gordon. Was a threat when in possession but struggled against Newcastle’s low block. More

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      Chelsea star Cole Palmer arrives at training in Royal Mail van after getting lift from local postie

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      CHELSEA goal ace Cole Palmer is delivering the goods on and off the pitch — after arriving at training in a Royal Mail van.The £40million star shocked team-mates by getting a lift from his local postie.Chelsea star Cole Palmer shocked his team-mates when he arrived at training in a Royal Mail vanCredit: GettyPalmer, 22, had left his car at Chelsea’s training base in Cobham, Surrey, the previous day when he was driven home by a team-mate earlier this month.Struggling to get back in, he was offered a lift in the mail van after chatting with the driver.A source close to Palmer told The Sun: “Cole is the most normal, down-to-earth guy you could meet, and this is typical of him. “He’s a very friendly lad and is on good terms with all of his neighbours, including the postman.READ MORE IN SPORTS“He didn’t think twice when he was offered a lift to the training ground, although his arrival certainly caused quite a stir.“Not many multi-millionaire stars come to training with a postman.”A Chelsea source added: “Cole is so laid-back he didn’t understand what all the fuss was about.“The other players were hysterical about it. Most read in Football“They found it so funny, and gave him the stamp of approval for his stunt.“He’s a complete one-off, on and off the pitch. “Nothing surprises us with him.”How Cole Palmer might look like as Postman PatPep Guardiola reveals why he sold Cole Palmer with Chelsea star topping Premier League scoring charts amid amazing year More

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      Sporting ‘to accept offers for Viktor Gyokeres £30MILLION below release clause with boss Ruben Amorim on way to Man Utd’

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      SPORTING LISBON will reportedly let star man Viktor Gyokeres leave for a cut-price fee next summer – with some of Europe’s biggest clubs ready to pounce.The 26-year-old has an £85million release clause in his contract, which expires in June 2028.Viktor Gyokeres could be sold for a cut-price fee next summerCredit: GettyIncoming Man Utd manager Ruben Amorim could attempt to lure him to Old TraffordCredit: PABut according to Sky Germany, that will be reduced at the end of the 2024-25 campaign.Gyokeres, who has scored 14 goals in as many games this season, will therefore be allowed to leave Sporting next summer for as little as £50m.Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City are among the clubs tracking the sought-after striker.But Manchester United could also enter the race – especially if Sporting boss Ruben Amorim completes a move to Old Trafford.Read More on Man UtdAmorim has been tipped to replace Erik ten Hag following the Dutchman’s departure.United are set to pay his £8.3m exit clause, meaning he will be free to swap Lisbon for Manchester.A statement from Sporting on Tuesday afternoon read: “Manchester United has expressed an interest in hiring coach Ruben Amorim, with the Board of Directors of Sporting SAD referring to the terms and conditions set out in the employment contract in force between the Company and the coach, specifically the respective termination clause and the amount of 10m Euros.”Manchester United has expressed an interest in paying Sporting SAD the amount of the aforementioned clause.”Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSRuud van Nistelrooy has been placed in charge as interim United boss ahead of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup tie with Leicester.But if things go to plan, he could step aside in time for Chelsea’s visit to Old Trafford on Sunday afternoon.How ‘Mourinho 2.0’ Ruben Amorim can revive Man Utd after being overlooked by Liverpool in summerRuben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More