Jose Mourinho: David Moyes is great choice for Manchester United

Jose Mourinho believes that David Moyes is a “great choice” for Manchester United after the Everton boss was named as Sir Alex Ferguson’s successor.

Moyes will take the reins from Ferguson at Old Trafford on 1 July after the 71-year-old announced that he will be stepping down at the end of the season after 26 years in charge at the club.

And Mourinho, who had been touted as a potential successor for Ferguson at United over the years, believes that Moyes is a good appointment by the Red Devils.

“I wish Sir Alex a happy life, and I wish David a successful career,” Mourinho told Sky Sports. “I think David is a great choice. I like him as a person, I like his character as a manager.

“I believe Manchester United will support him, I think he has the qualities to do a good job. We are good friends, and my good friends know which club I would like to manage when I finish my work at Real Madrid.”

Mourinho admitted that he was “emotional” when he learned of Ferguson’s decision to step down.

“When Sir Alex called me to give me the honour of knowing from him his decision, I was surprised and sad,” said Mourinho, who has been linked with a return to Chelsea this summer.

“It will be difficult for me, and I think all managers, to go to Old Trafford and play against Manchester United without this mythical figure waiting for us.

“At the same time, I was happy to feel his emotion, and pride for such an amazing career.”