José Mourinho misses a trick for top-four push with self-inflicted shunt


Manchester United’s manager was perfectly relaxed after Arsenal defeat but there is little doubt he missed an unexpected second chance to sneak into the top four

Never apologise, never explain. There is no doubt a view José Mourinho functions best when he is under pressure, when the vice begins to bite around his temples. This, though, was a self‑inflicted shunt a little further into a José-shaped corner.

Mourinho was pointedly relaxed, unruffled, even jarringly smiley after this 2-0 defeat by Arsenal, massaging the debate around both United’s selection and also their lack of drive against a team they have traditionally spent 90 minutes trying to throttle.

Related: Arsenal’s Danny Welbeck rises high to finish off Manchester United

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