Former Christian Pulisic’s former coach has revealed how the 20-year-old ‘rejected a move to Manchester United because of Jose Mourinho.’

The United States international eventually joined Chelsea from Borussia Dortmund after his father rejected Mourinho because of his inability to promote young players to the first team.

But it now transpires that Pulisic could have arrived in England sooner in a switch to United while Mourinho was in charge, report the Daily Mail.

Robin Walker, who coached Pulisic as a youngster when he was at non-League side Brackley Town, told the Telegraph: ‘I’m a Chelsea fan, I grew up in London supporting them. When I was in Dortmund last year, I told him that he had to come.

‘He wouldn’t go to Manchester United because of Jose Mourinho. His father couldn’t stand Mourinho, because he didn’t promote young players. It was at that point I asked: “What about London? That’s where it’s at.”

‘I was trying to sell the city. His agent agreed, saying: “When you make these decisions, it’s all about investment and property.” I was delighted that he did sign.’

Mourinho was sacked in December and was replaced by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who has looked to place his faith in young players such as Andreas Pereira, Scott McTominay, Daniel James, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Tahith Chong and Mason Greenwood.