Jose Mourinho has indicated he did swear in front of camera after Manchester United’s win against Newcastle last month – but is adamant he was right to be cleared of using foul or abusive language by an independent panel this this week.
The Football Association charged Mourinho for comments made as he left the pitch following his side’s dramatic 3-2 win on the day he woke up to reports he was about to be sacked.
On Wednesday, however, an Independent Regulatory Commission found the charges unproven.
The FA are now awaiting written reasons for that decision before determining whether to lodge an appeal of their own.
Mourinho insists he is ‘100 per cent’ innocent – but has suggested he did swear, claiming it is a case of cultural differences.
“Nobody knows what I told,” said the United manager. “Did you watch Crystal Palace vs Arsenal? You know that between Portuguese, Spanish, Italians, we are saying that word five times every 10 second and we don't offend anyone. Anyone.
“It's the same thing as you English say some similar words, but a bit different. You are not offending. You are just frustration, happiness, here it comes. All the time.”
As part of Mourinho’s defence he insisted his words were not intended to be insulting.
He added: “You know the reason why I ask the club and lawyers to appeal was because I was 100 per cent that I was not guilty of these charges. But you never know how it ends.
“Yes I'm pleased, but I know that I have to respect the process and I have to for what is going to happen next. But I only appeal if I feel I am not guilty, I don't appeal to lose my time or others lose their time.”
