Jose Mourinho is a 'real-life legend'! Scott McTominay opens up on tough conversation with the Special One the day he was sacked by Man Utd

Mourinho took over at United in May 2016 and led them to Carabao Cup and Europa League success but was sacked after a poor run of results in December 2018. While many do not look back on that time with too much happiness, Red Devils midfielder McTominay is still a huge fan of the Portuguese. Now, the Scottish international has revealed what was said when the pair crossed paths the day the former Chelsea manager was given his marching orders.

McTominay, who made his senior debut during Mourinho's tenure, told the High Performance Podcast: "On the day he left, I saw him in the corridor and he invited me in. I didn't know what to say. I was gutted. It was hard.

"This guy means so much to me and has given me all the dreams I could ever wish for, and now he's gone. I didn't know what to think. I was umming and aahing. I just said 'Thank you for the opportunity, you've been a real-life legend for me, good luck for what you do next'.

"We are still in touch sometimes, if I've had a good game he lets me know. He'll text saying 'well done kid' as he always calls me. They were great times and I'm so grateful for him."

While Mourinho's stock has fallen over the years, culminating in his sacking from Roma this month, he is one of the most-decorated managers of all time and many players have revelled in the opportunity to work under him. And it is clear McTominay is one of his many admirers.

In the short term, McTominay is likely to feature for United under current manager Erik ten Hag Erik ten Hag in their fourth round FA Cup clash away to League Two side Newport County on Sunday. Mourinho, on the other hand, will likely look for a new managerial role soon.