IT took one day of training under Jose Mourinho to convince Wayne Rooney that Manchester United can claim top honours this season.
United’s captain arrived in Shanghai with his teammates for a two-game pre-season tour against Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City, but is expected to focus on his fitness rather than playing in the matches.
Rooney returned to training 24 hours earlier following an extended break after England’s Euro 2016 campaign, and there were no signs of a lingering Icelandic hangover.
He endured the disappointment of a shock Round of 16 exit in France after a turbulent campaign under Louis van Gaal last season, but the 30-year-old was photographed laughing and joking with Mourinho at their China training base.
He already believes the new Portuguese boss can lead the Red Devils to glory.
“I’ve only had one day [training with Mourinho] since we came out, but it was a very good day, the training session,” Rooney said.
“I think you only have to look at the teams he’s had before, and the success he’s had with them, and we’re hoping he can bring that to us.
“I’m excited for it. It’s a big season for us. The appointment of Mourinho is a big appointment for us and we’re all excited by it. We’ve made some fantastic signings too.
“Hopefully we can have a good start to the season and be successful by the end of it.”
Rooney struck 15 goals in all competitions for United last season and has already been joined by the arrivals of attacker Henrikh Mkhitaryan from Dortmund, defender Eric Bailly from Villarreal, and striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic from PSG.
Mourinho has admitted that the star Red Devil won’t be playing a role in central midfield, as he did for England and United last season, and that could see him challenge Ibrahimovic for a place up front.
But the experienced forward won’t be letting the task get the better of him.
“I think you always feel pressure when you play for Manchester United,” said Rooney. “It’s one of the biggest – if not the biggest - clubs in the world and it’s been a pleasure and a privilege to play for them for so long.
“You always feel you have to prove yourself every season, because it’s a dream to play for them.”