The Portuguese, who fell foul of FA sanctions after clashes against West Ham, Liverpool and Burnley, told France Football that he is more balanced, mature and calm after eight months in charge of United.

‘I would say, “The Calm One”,’ Mourinho told the French publication.

‘Everyone expected me to be a problem. But the only problem I’ve had up till now, is when I kicked a bottle of water in front of me [against West Ham in reaction to Paul Pogba being booked]. I was sent to the stand and had to pay a fine for that.

‘That’s my problem: when I’m a little bit frustrated, I kick bottles. But it’s my only outburst since my arrival eight months ago. So, I have become “The Calm One”. Having said that, perhaps tomorrow I’ll get sent off.

‘Today, I feel good with my personality as a man. I have matured, I am more peaceful. A victory no longer represents the moon, and a defeat hell.

‘I believe that I am able to transmit this serenity to those who work with me, to my players. I have the same ambitions as before. The same involvement, the same professionalism, but I’m more in control of my emotions.’

Manchester United are in fifth after beating Middlesbrough 3-1 in their previous league encounter.