24 May,2017 09:31 AM IST | Manchester, England | AFP
Jose Mourinho said the victims of a deadly suicide bomb attack in Manchester were in the minds and hearts of his squad as United prepare for Wednesday's Europa League final against Ajax in Stockholm
Jose Mourinho
Jose Mourinho
Jose Mourinho said the victims of a deadly suicide bomb attack in Manchester were in the "minds and hearts" of his squad as United prepare for Wednesday's Europa League final against Ajax in Stockholm.
The Islamic State extremist group claimed responsibility for the attack that killed at least 22 people, including children, and injured dozens at a concert by US pop star Ariana Grande at the Manchester Arena on Monday.
"We're all very sad about the tragic events last night, we can't take out of our minds & hearts the victims & their families," Manchester United manager Mourinho said in comments on the club's Twitter feed.
"We have a job to do & will fly to Sweden to do that job. It's a pity we cannot fly with the happiness we always have before a big game." Mourinho, who joined United last year, added: "I know, even during my short time here, that the people of Manchester will pull together as one."
The Portuguese led his players in a minute's silence on United's training pitches and the club said they were cancelling Tuesday's pre-match press conference in Stockholm. "Due to the tragic events in Manchester last night and the effect that this has had on everyone here at our club and within our city, we have decided to cancel this evening's pre-match press conference in Stockholm," United said in a statement.
"Our thoughts are with the victims at this terribly difficult time." Meanwhile David Beckham, who made his name as a global football star at United, expressed his condolences via an Instagram message, saying: "Heartbreaking news from Manchester. As a father & a human what has happened truly saddens me. My thoughts are with all of those that have been affected by this tragedy."
