London, May 27 (IANS): Manchester United confirmed on Friday they have signed Portuguese Jose Mourinho as chief coach for the next three football seasons, with the option to stay at the club "until at least 2020".

In the club statement, the squad's executive vice-president Ed Woodward said Mourinho, 53, is "quite simply the best manager in the game today. He has won trophies and inspired players in countries across Europe and, of course, he knows the Premier League very well, having won three titles here", reports Efe.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to welcome him to Manchester United. His track record of success is ideal to take the club forward," Woodward added.

Mourinho's signing to Manchester United has been expected since the club confirmed last Monday the dismissal of Dutch coach Louis van Gaal, who this season led the Red Devils to win the FA Cup, but failed to qualify for the next Champions League, with the team landing fifth place in the Premier League. Van Gaal remained with the side for two seasons.

Mourinho, who has won a total of 22 trophies since 2003, said that becoming the coach of the English club "is a special honour in the game". 

He has the experience of coaching some of the best clubs in Europe -- Porto, Inter Milan, Chelsea and Real Madrid.

"I have always felt an affinity with Old Trafford; it has hosted some important memories for me in my career and I have always enjoyed a rapport with the United fans. I'm looking forward to being their manager and enjoying their magnificent support in the coming years," the coach, who was sacked by Chelsea in December 2015, added.