Former FC Porto striker Benni McCarthy has indicated Manchester United could become the club where Jose Mourinho will want to have a long-term project.
The former Chelsea manager’s proposed move to Manchester United has been gathering noise for weeks, and there is speculation that a contract has also been drawn up which would see the Portuguese take over from Louis van Gaal before the new season rolls out.
Despite winning numerous trophies with some of the biggest clubs in European football, the 53-year-old has often been accused of short-termism and there is a feeling that he can never last at a club longer than three or four seasons.
McCarthy, who won the Champions League under Mourinho, feels differently and pointed out that at Porto he was allowed the time to build a team, which helped him to instill his vision at the club.
He indicated that Manchester United are the kind of club where the 53-year-old might choose to put down roots and enjoy a long-term spell because he believes Mourinho can work wonders if he is given that kind of an opportunity.
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The South African told the BBC: "During my time at Porto he had time to settle in and instill his philosophy.
"Nobody interfered much in what he was doing. He had full support and I think that is why he was so successful.
"Manchester United is that kind of club. It is a very well-run club and a family club. Because of that I think he will be able to make those players play to their ability and put the club back where they belong.
"I definitely think he wants that opportunity to have a long-term spell at a club, where he can build a foundation and fix things properly. When he gets that, people will see the real Mourinho we all know."
Mourinho often said that he wanted to build a legacy when he returned to Chelsea in 2013, but after a disastrous start to the season, he was sacked in December last year.
