Jose's Manucho misgivings

Manucho, who signed from Angolan club Petro Atlético last month, lit up the African Cup of Nations with four goals to lead his country to the quarter-finals, before they finally fell to Egypt.

He has been loaned to Panathinaikos in Greece for the remainder of the European season - and Mourinho said he is not sure that he will pull on the red jersey of United after that.

"If you asked me whether I believe one day he will play for Manchester United… I have my doubts," Mourinho said.

"I do not know if he will progress so well that he can play for one of the best teams in the world.

"But he is clearly a very good talent. He's ready to play in European football.

"He will go to a good club in Greece, with a good coach [Jose Peseiro] who I believe can help him in his development as a player."

Mourinho added that Africa contains many football gems like Manucho that can be cultivated to become the best players in the world.

"I think the Africans are wild talents, the sort of talent you have to work with and keep under control. You have the diamond in your hands; but you need to keep working it," he said.

"I think their character is special and it is easy to fall in love with them. I have connected well with every African player I have worked with.

"I do not sign more African players for my teams because the African Cup of Nations is played in January - and you can lose three, four or five of them at a very difficult time."