I was very much looking forward to this press conference and my take on it:
First thought as he came in was " Come on Jose, not even a suit for the first PC?"
As expected and predicted by me earlier, the first question was What _____ One was he now? I thought he handled that stupid question really well.
Was really impressed with how he saw us as a club and where he wants United to be. This is what we want in a manager of United. I liked how he said, he wanted to be aggressive and wanted "everything". I believe him.
His answers on signings was completely fine and I didn't think we were after 6 or 7 players either and it made sense. I still believe this squad is better than what the previous managers have achieved with it. We have a manager with a plan and I am all for it.
I'll admit I cringed a bit when he took out the paper to explain his youth policy. He could have done without. I also don't completely buy his "I gave 49 players a chance" argument or his reasoning of low injuries and him having to compete for titles all the time that prevented him from giving more chance to youth. SAF did it while competing for trophies. But of course SAF is a one of a kind manager, so let's leave that aside.
He could have just said, "This club is famous for it and the structure here and the environment would allow me to promote more as the fans are used to seeing young players and would support them even if they had a few bad games. So it'll be easier." or something along those lines. I just hope he realizes that and trust some young talents to develop here at United.
The way he started answering the Giggs part of the question, I was worried that we might see a rant, but he handled it perfectly. Honest, direct, complimentary and the correct way to put the issue to rest and not have it hang around.
I absolutely loved that he confirmed that Rooney won't play 6 or 8. I am glad he has given a definitive answer on that issue. Thank God for that.
By the time the PC came to an end, I was completely sold and if he delivers I don't care if he gave his next press conference in tank tops and boxer shorts!!
I am pumped for the new season and can't wait for it to start.
P.S: I want to thank the person who sent me the river which helped in watching the press conference live. Cheers.