Jose Mourinho: Wayne Rooney to Get Deserved Warm Welcome in Old Trafford Return

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho believes former striker Wayne Rooney will receive a warm welcome when he returns to Old Trafford as a member of Everton on Sunday.  

Per Reuters, he described the former England international as a legend:

"I think he’ll get the welcome that he deserves.

"Sometimes the word legend comes too easily (but) he’s a real legend of the club. The number of appearances, goals, trophies – clearly he’s one of the most important players in the history of Manchester United.

"I think the stadium will show him the respect he deserves. I hope before the match and after but not during it."

The 31-year-old played for United from 2004 until last summer, when he returned to his boyhood club. In that span, he became the Red Devils' all-time leading scorer and won five Premier League titles, as well as one UEFA Champions League trophy.

His efficiency in front of goal dropped off in the last few seasons, and the two sides decided to part ways amicably during the summer. 

Most fans and pundits assume he'll receive a great welcome from the United faithful, including Arlo White, per SiriusXM FC:

The bigger question may be how Old Trafford would react if he scored against his former club, and whether Rooney would choose to celebrate.