Jose Mourinho releases first statement following Manchester United sacking

Mourinho was sacked by Manchester United on Tuesday

Jose Mourinho has issued a statement in the wake of his sacking by Manchester United this week, saying that he was "immensely proud" to represent the club as its manager. The Portuguese coach's two-and-a-half-year spell at Old Trafford came to an end on Tuesday after a disastrous start to the season which sees the club 19 points behind rivals and league leaders Liverpool. The club confirmed on Wednesday that Mourinho will be replaced - on an interim basis - by former striker Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. "I have been immensely proud to wear the badge of Manchester United since the first day I arrived, and I believe all United supporters recognise this. Just as was the case with my previous clubs, I have worked with some wonderful people and I believe that some will be my friends for life," said Mourinho. "I know that you are all aware of my professional principles. Each time a chapter is closed I show my deepest respect and I don't make any comments about my former colleagues. "I hope the media will also respect my position and let me live my normal life until the moment I decide to return to football. "Merry Christmas."