Jose Mourinho’s ability to galvanise a squad within weeks of taking charge is formidable. With the help of four new signings, the Special One has turned Manchester United from a bunch of also-rans to genuine Premier League title contenders.
But while few can match Mourinho’s managerial skills, his man-management has been found wanting time and time again. It is hard to experience so much success without accumulating a few enemies but, at times, it appears Mourinho actively seeks them out.
He already has at least one at Old Trafford, according to Italian newspaper Tuttosport. They claim his relationship with defender Matteo Darmian as reached ‘total breakdown’ with the player unlikely to feature between now and the January transfer window.
Then, they claim, Mourinho is hoping to sell Darmian to the highest bidder. Having originally made his name in Serie A with Torino, a return to his native Italy looks most likely with Juventus rumoured to be interested.
Whether the 26-year-old is heading for the same levels of isolation as Bastian Schweinsteiger is unclear. The German was told to move out of the senior dressing room and is believed to be training with the Under-21 side after refusing to leave in the summer.