Jose Mourinho has downplayed the significance of Manchester United's upcoming Premier League match against his former club Chelsea, insisting it is 'just another game' for three points. The United manager, who led Chelsea to two league titles, claimed that the visit of Liverpool next month holds more emotional weight for the club and its fans.
Speaking ahead of Sunday's fixture at Old Trafford, Mourinho said: 'Chelsea is like any normal game and probably playing Liverpool in a few weeks means more. For my club – and everyone knows that the most important thing is not me – to play Liverpool has a special meaning.' He added that he harbours no bad feelings towards Chelsea, having left on good terms with every club he has managed.
Mourinho acknowledged the quality of Chelsea's squad, noting that many of their players have won two titles in three years. However, he suggested that United's tactical approach this season will differ from last April's 2-0 victory, which saw Ander Herrera man-mark Eden Hazard. With Herrera sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Mourinho hinted at a different strategy, citing changed circumstances and player availability.
The Portuguese manager also reflected on his history with Chelsea, where he won two Premier League titles, two League Cups, and an FA Cup across two spells. Despite the rivalry, he insisted the match is purely about securing three points in the league standings.
