Topics: Premier League, Manchester United, Jose Mourinho, Zlatan Ibrahimovic
We take a look at Mourinho’s probable signings for Man United, and how they could line up.

Now that Jose Mourinho has been officially announced as the new Man United manager, expectations are high not only from the club’s fans. As expected, his critics could be praying for his downfall just like he did on his last season at Chelsea before getting sacked. But what will it take for the Special One to create that special team at Old Trafford next season, and challenge for major trophies in England and Europe? We take a look at some of his expected new signings but first things first, here's a preview of Mou's managerial stats:

Raphael Varane (Real Madrid)

Position: Central defender

The France international has been linked with a move to Old Trafford in the recent few weeks following Mourinho’s increasing links with the English side. He worked under the Portuguese boss back at the Santiago Bernabeu.Varane in action for Real MadridMourinho signed the 23-year-old from Lens to Real Madrid in 2011 and has since made 91 league appearances for the Spanish side.

John Stones (Everton)

Position: Right-back

Mourinho has been a long-term admirer of John Stones but he failed to sign him while at Chelsea. His appointment at Old Trafford, and Everton’s poor performance towards the end of the season could lure Stones out of Goodison Park in search of greatness under Mou.John Stones in action for Everton

Joao Mario (Sporting Lisbon)

Position: Defensive midfielder

The Portuguese star can play along the wings or as central midfielder. His pace, flexibility and defensive skills could make him the perfect replacement for Juan Mata, who may not be preferred by the new boss if their relationship at Chelsea was anything to go by. Joao Mario in action for Sporting Lisbon

Willian (Chelsea)

Position: Winger/attacking midfielder

The Chelsea Player of the Season was in outstanding form for the Blues even as they sunk further down the league table before Mou’s sacking.

The speedy Brazilian was recently quoted praising the new Man Utd boss, hence sparking rumors of an expected reunion.Willian celebrates his goal for ChelseaThe 27-year-old is dangerous on set pieces, stable with the ball, and equally good at dribbling. He has since made 93 league appearances for the Blues since joining them from Anzhi Makhachkala in 2013, and scored 11 goals. At Anzhi, he only scored one goal in 11 league appearances, a true testimony of his resurgence under Jose. 

James Rodriguez (Real Madrid)

Position: Attacking midfielder

The Colombian is not new to Real Madrid exit rumors. Several reports from Spain have previously suggested that the 24-year-old is keen on establishing himself away from the Santiago Bernabeu and that’s where Jose comes in.James Rodriques celebrates one of his goals for Real MadridThe Red Devils had tried to sign him back in 2013 but failed. He has made 55 league appearances for the Spanish club and scored 20 goals since 2014. Last season, he scored seven league goals in 26 appearances.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic 

Position: Forward

This could be one of the best signings for Mourinho. In fact, reports in England suggest that the Swedish forward has already agreed terms with the club and that the deal could be officially announced immediately after the Euros.

The Ligue 1 Player of the Year 2015/16 has a good relationship with Jose, which dates back to their days at Inter Milan. Judging from his response to journalists on Thursday when asked whether he had been contacted by the English club over a possible move, it is safe to say Zlatan will be a Red next season on a free transfer.

That said and done, here is a preview of how the new-look Man United under the former FC Porto boss could line up.Predicted Man United line up under Mourinho