Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho signs contract extension until 2020 at least

The United manager's previous deal was set to expire at the end of next season

Manchester United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward with Jose Mourinho after announcing his new contract (Manchester United)

Jose Mourinho has signed a contract extension at Manchester United, committing his future to the club until 2020 with the option of another year.

The United manager’s previous deal was set to expire at the end of next season.

Mourinho, who was appointed as Louis van Gaal’s successor in the summer of 2016, said he was “delighted” that United’s executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward had offered to extend his stay at Old Trafford after EFL Cup and Europa League triumphs in his debut campaign.

“I am really honoured and proud to be Manchester United manager,” he said. “I would like to say a big thank you to the owners and to Mr Woodward for the recognition of my hard work and dedication.

“I am delighted they feel and trust that I am the right manager for this great club for the foreseeable future.

“We have set very high standards – winning three trophies in one season – but those are the standards I expect my teams to aim for. We are creating the conditions for a brilliant and successful future for Manchester United.”

Woodward said: “Jose has already achieved a great deal as Manchester United manager and I am delighted that he has agreed to extend his commitment until at least 2020.

“His work rate and professionalism are exceptional and he has embraced the club’s desire to promote top quality young players to the first team.

“He has brought an energy and a sense of purpose to everything that he does and I am sure that will continue to bring results for the fans and the club.”​

Mourinho’s long-term future was called into question earlier this month when, shortly after he publicly criticised the club’s level of transfer spending, reports of a rift with United’s board emerged.

The Portuguese described such claims as “garbage news”, insisting that he remains as passionate about his work as ever and that his bosses were happy with him.

United have since brought Alexis Sanchez to the club from Arsenal and Mourinho has praised the club’s efforts in the transfer market.

United currently sit second in the Premier League table, 12 points adrift of leaders Manchester City, though they remain in the hunt for both the FA Cup and the Champions League.