The European Union Intellectual Property Office database also showed that Chelsea still owned the trademark to Mourinho’s name, an application that was registered in April 2006 and was listed as running until March 2025. They also registered for the trademark to his signature in July 2009.

However, sources close to the negotiations between Mourinho and United told The Daily Telegraph that Chelsea no longer owned the trademark. Furthermore, it is understood that Mourinho has retained all of his image rights following the legal discussions, although his contract with United will limit the number of personal endorsements he is allowed to sign while he is the club’s manager.

That is unlikely to concern the 53-year-old too much. Despite managing Real Madrid for three years ago, Mourinho’s marketing power may be greater than ever at United, whose commercial department will view his superstar status as a considerable boon as far as selling their products is concerned. Many of United’s sponsors may also benefit from the exposure Mourinho brings.