Jose Mourinho has sights set on Champions League – Man United boss

Sir Alex Ferguson believes that Real Madrid’s poor league form means Los Blancos are fully focused on securing Champions League glory this season.

The defending La Liga champions head into Wednesday’s clash with Manchester United 16 points behind league leaders Barcelona, with their chances of retaining their title now looking almost impossible.

And Ferguson, whose side travel to the Bernabeu for the fist leg of their Champions League last-16 tie on Wednesday night, feels that their poor domestic form has simply increased the potential significance of European success for Jose Mourinho’s men.

“I think their target is the European Cup,” said the Manchester United boss. “They got a bad start in the league and were chasing their tail a bit because Barcelona’s form has been incredible.

“I think Jose has set his targets firmly on the European Cup, no doubt about that. It can be harder for us but there’s a bit of pressure for them too.”

Ferguson, whose side opened up a 12-point lead at the top of the Premier League table this weekend, added: “It’s always been important to them, the European Cup, and I don’t think it [pressure] necessarily applies to Jose as I think he’s done a great job there.

“He’s really built up a terrific squad of players and could play two teams, like us. I don’t think it applies to him but you never know in football.

“I don’t think there’s any secrecy in his own desire to win the European Cup as, don’t forget, he’d be the only person to win it with three different teams so it’s a fantastic challenge for Jose.”