Ryan Giggs Backs Jose Mourinho to Stay as Manchester United Manager

Wales manager Ryan Giggs has advised former club Manchester United to stick with coach Jose Mourinho after a disappointing start to the season.

The Red Devils legend has said it would be a mistake to sack the Portuguese at this stage of the campaign, despite the club not winning a game in their last four in all competitions.

Per BBC Sport, Giggs said:

"I believe he [Mourinho] should keep his job. They're going through a tough time at the moment, but change now then you're in the same position in a year, two years, quite possibly. 

"I think the problem of late has been forward planning. Just take stock, they're going through a tough time but, no, my stance hasn't changed."

Quality Sport Images/Getty Images

Despite Giggs' sentiments, former United players have lined up to give their opinion about Mourinho's tactics and vision, and many have pointed the finger at the Special One.

Per BBC Sport, Paul Ince said the manager could be dismissed if United lose to Newcastle United in the Premier League on Saturday.

Ince said:

"Mourinho's time is running out. United are no better off than they were before him. If they don't get a result against Newcastle this weekend, Jose Mourinho is in real danger.

He won't walk because that's not in his character. I hate the thought of Jose being sacked, but if you are not picking up results and there is this black cloud hanging around Old Trafford, your time as manager is running out."

Legendary midfielder Paul Scholes commented Mourinho is "embarrassing" United with the way he manages the club.

Scholes was frank as he gave his opinion as a pundit on BT Sport:

The clock is ticking on Mourinho's tenure, and Giggs' support is not reflected throughout the wider football community and press.

After more than two seasons at Old Trafford, the starting XI is beginning to regress, and the coach's handling of star players has been poor as he attempts to get the best from them.

Mourinho's spiralling relationship with Paul Pogba appears to have had wider ramifications on the team's performance, and United are continuously flat and short of confidence.

The manager requires a slice of luck when Newcastle arrive in the north west, but supporters need to see a fresh performance that delivers hope and energy to the failing club.

United have lacked tactical credibility since pre-season, and if this area doesn't improve fast, Mourinho will be the individual that pays the ultimate price with his job.