The intense pressure of managing a top football club was laid bare as the Manchester United boss admitted his own passionate nature creates dramatic swings in his outlook, ranging from wanting to resign to envisioning a two-decade tenure.
Following a disappointing midweek cup elimination against lower-league opposition Grimsby, the manager delivered a characteristically emotional post-match assessment, stating that “something has to change” and that his squad’s performance sent a clear message. This sparked immediate speculation about his future at the club.
Addressing those concerns, the coach remained unapologetically defiant. He confirmed that his raw, emotional reactions are a fundamental part of his managerial identity and that he has no intention of changing to present a calmer, more consistent facade to the media.
“I will always be this way,” he stated firmly. “After a defeat like that, the frustration takes over. I’ll say I hate my players one day and love them the next. That’s just who I am, and I’m not going to pretend otherwise.”
He acknowledged that his volatile public persona has a downside, readily accepting that such outbursts can fuel uncertainty. He described his own temperament as a “rollercoaster,” where feelings about his job and his squad can change drastically from one moment to the next. While he conceded this is an area for personal improvement, he suggested change would be difficult.
Amidst the turmoil, the manager moved to clarify the situation of a key midfielder, Kobbie Mainoo, whose desire to leave the club was recently reported. The boss was unequivocal in his desire to keep the player, emphasizing his value to the team.
“I want him to stay,” he asserted. “He must fight for his position, and we need him. That stance is not changing. I understand players who aren’t in the lineup are disappointed, but the battle for a place is won on the training ground during the week.”
