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Man Utd news: Jose Mourinho excuse made after Champions League defeat to Juventus
JOSE MOURINHO has been excused for Manchester United’s Champions League display against Juventus by Phil Neville.
Cristiano Ronaldo marked his return to Old Trafford with a win as Juventus claimed a 1-0 victory thanks to a goal from Paulo Dybala.
Juventus dominated possession and David de Gea had to make a fabulous double save just before the interval to keep United in touch.
United have now failed to score in consecutive Champions League games for the first time in six years.
Mourinho, meanwhile, cut a disgruntled figure on the touchline and while United were more inventive in the second half with Paul Pogba hitting the post, the Portuguese tactician saw his side disappoint once again.
United fans have voiced their anger with United already lagging nine points behind table toppers Manchester City in the Premier League.
Despite the problems plaguing United, Neville is still standing by Mourinho and thinks not everything is the manager’s fault.
“Juventus were in control the whole game. Never at any moment did they lose their composure and class,” Neville said after the match.
United huffed and puffed and had half chances from Paul Pogba.
“There was a gulf in class and Juventus were the better side.
“Jose [Mourinho] is building his team.
“He wanted two centre-backs in the summer and one player he bought [Lindelof] was excellent tonight.
“But you need quality and magic in the final third.
“They didn't get service into the box and when they did, they didn't do anything with it.”
United are second in Group H on four points at the halfway stage.