What do Bebe, Manchester United and Jose Mourinho all have in common?
Answer: Jorge Mendes.
The Portuguese ‘super-agent’ has been an instrumental figure in the lives of both Jose Mourinho and Manchester United, so given the recent ‘approval’ of Sir Alex Ferguson for the ‘Special One’ to one-day replace him, don’t be surprised if Mendes is busy working behind the scenes on getting his client to Old Trafford
Mendes is a name who will conjure up mixed emotions among United supporters. He helped Cristiano Ronaldo arrive at Old Trafford in 2003, and also aided his record-breaking departure in 2009.
He also facilitated the signing of Nani back in 2007 from Sporting Lisbon, and could well be busy working trying to find his client a new club given the recent contract impasse between player and club.
But if Ronaldo and Nani were a ‘hit’ and a ‘maybe’ – then Mendes certainly has a ‘miss’ to answer for his part in bringing Bebe to Old Trafford.
The Portuguese winger was last seen trying his best for United’s under-21 side, but the fact he didn’t even make the bench for the club’s Champions League dead-rubber against Cluj last night indicates just how far away he is from dis-associating the word ‘flop’ from being attributed to his name.
The repercussions from that particular deal will still be being felt around Old Trafford, and after being talked into the switch you can imagine the hierarchy being a little reticent next time he gets in touch with regard to ‘the next big thing’.
Mourinho however is a completely different kettle of fish, a proven winner, league champion in four different countries and Champions League winner with two clubs. Most of all he could be available soon.
Ferguson and Mourinho could even cut out the middle man in Mendes, but the agent can only help smooth it along and help his client get what he wants.
Mendes is a powerful figure in football, with his client list reading like a who’s who of Portuguese football and those who have played in the Primera; Falcao, Ronaldo, Di Maria, Pepe, Coentrao, as well as Anderson and Nani.
His presence in the mix certainly adds an intriguing twist into the saga of ‘where will Mourinho go next’ – and given United’s past dealings with him, Bebe blot aside, and Mourinho’s cordial relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson, makes you wonder if we’ll be seeing the Special One managing the Red Devils as his next club.
image: © apasciuto
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