It’s quite possible that Mourinho’s leadership style will be evaluated by the United Board at season’s end.
Jose Mourinho is a tough manager when it comes to handling under-performing players. But he has come under intense scrutiny recently following his public criticism of Luke Shaw.
After United’s FA Cup quarterfinal game against Brighton, this is what Mourinho had to say: “Luke, in the first half, every time they went in his corridor the cross was coming and a dangerous situation was coming, so I was not happy with his performance. But to try to improve our offensive football and be more aggressive I have to change one. I decided Luke because at least Antonio, defensively, was capable of some good positioning,”
That’s strong language and it’s not unusual behavior from Mourinho. He pushes players to the limit to bring out the best in them.
For sure, different managers use different approaches in their handling of their players. Some prefer taking a softer approach, while others choose a hardline strategy. It’s obvious that Mourinho pursues the latter approach. But I don’t think that option serves him well. For one thing, it’s clear that Mourinho is damaging his players’ confidence. The likes of Pogba, Martial, and Rashford have become victims of Mourinho’s confrontational approach.
In my view, Mourinho should address his concerns in private rather than lambast players in public. But I also know it’s a tactic–a smokescreen–to draw attention away from his side’s unconvincing performances. And, for that, he is attracting criticism from pundits, including me.
A ruthless approach is not new to Mourinho’s managerial career. He took the very same hardline approach during his time in Madrid and Chelsea, respectively–an approach that eventually led to his dismissal from both teams.
Courtesy: Mirror.co.uk
For sure, I think Mourinho may have a point trying to remind his players that they need to raise their standard of play, but his approach is having a negative effect on players. If players feel they are being bullied, it’s understandable that they will begin withdrawing support and respect.
There is no doubt the United have progressed since Mourinho has taken charge. And it also seems that he has the full backing of the Board to carry out his duties. But his continuous public spats, which include controversies with rival managers and pundits, haven’t gone down well with senior figures at the club.
I think Mourinho’s career could be headed in the wrong direction if he doesn’t change his hardline approach.
The bottom line is clear: Mourinho needs to improve his comportment, including doing a better job of managing off-the-field antics.
Nos that the international break is over and club duties are expected to resume this weekend, Mourinho will focus on finishing the season strongly. But it remains to be seen what the future holds. It’s quite possible that his leadership style will be evaluated by the United Board at season’s end.
