Bellamy: Man United could lose identity under Mourinho

Joe Williams

Craig Bellamy thinks Manchester United and their fans will only tolerate Jose Mourinho’s style of play for so long.

The Portuguese coach has come under criticism following United’s defensive showing in their 0-0 draw against Liverpool over the weekend and their drab 1-0 victory over Benfica on Wednesday evening.

And former Wales international Bellamy thinks that the Red Devils could lose their identity under Mourinho if they aren’t careful.

“Manchester United are more than titles,” Bellamy said on the Sky Sports programme The Debate. “As a football club they have an identity that’s worth more than a title. As a club they have a certain way of playing and as a club they’ve let that go for the time being.

“Going from winning [the league] on a regular basis, to now coming off it has got them in that much of a panic.

“Sir Bobby Charlton said it through the years that Mourinho isn’t a Man United type of manager. At the moment, for their desperation to win trophies, to get back to the top, they will bring him in and they will let it go for now, but there will only be a period Manchester United supporters and Manchester United as a football club will allow this to happen for.

“Manchester United is a huge club, with a huge tradition, and you don’t want to be going too far away from that.”