The Red Devils veteran has credited the Portuguese for his new-found philosophy at Old Trafford
Michael Carrick has praised Jose Mourinho for adapting his footballing philosophy to suit the traditions of Manchester United.
The attacking intent that the club played with under the great Sir Alex Ferguson had gone missing since the Scotsman retired, with David Moyes and Louis van Gaal having both struggled to replicate the success of the legendary boss.
Meanwhile, Mourinho – who was known for his defensive and win-at-all-costs mentality prior to his arrival at United – has adapted to the club’s traditions which has seen them come out more willingly to attack their opposition.
And although that hasn’t seen their goal tally improve – having scored just 39 goals in 26 leagues games, compared to the 57 and 58 of Chelsea and Liverpool respectively who are above them in the table – it a promising sign for United fans.
Van Gaal’s teams were criticised for their ‘boring’ endless sideways and backwards passing, which produced just one trophy – the FA Cup – during the Dutchman’s tenure.
Carrick has credited Mourinho for adapting to the culture of the club.
“I think the manager has adapted to United traditions – and he’s admitted that himself,” said Carrick.
“That is credit to the manager. Of course, you have to play to the strengths of the players you have, but in the background he has a philosophy of what he wants to achieve.
“I’ve really enjoyed it. Before the manager came I was intrigued to see what he would be like and how he would cope with things at United.
“You could tell right from the start that he is a winner. It is still all about winning with Jose Mourinho.
“But there is also a certain way he wants to play now, which is maybe a little different to what his teams have been known for in the past.
“He’s a bit more attacking, if you like. I think it has worked. For the run we’ve gone on and how we have played, to still be sixth is disappointing.”
