LONDON (Reuters) — Manchester United have appointed José Mourinho as their new manager, Sky Sports News reported today.

The 53-year-old Portuguese replaces Louis van Gaal whose two-year reign at Old Trafford ended two days after United lifted the FA Cup.

The self-styled “Special One”, Mourinho was sacked by Chelsea last December, ending his second spell in charge of the West London club. He has also coached Porto, Inter Milan and Real Madrid.

Manchester United are not commenting on the report, although Rio Ferdinand, the former United defender, posted his congratulations on his Facebook page.

“Congratulations to José on being announced manager of the biggest club in the world!” he wrote.

Louis van Gaal was fired on Monday, and Mourinho’s representative and United have held talks this week.