Manchester United won't repeat the Jose Mourinho mistakes of five years ago this summer

For some Manchester United staffers the prospect of a return to the United States this summer will be enough to bring them out in a cold sweat. The States is a favourite pre-season venue for players and fans, but five years ago the temperature under Jose Mourinho's collar was as hot as the air outside.

It was the summer after United had finished second to Manchester City but that platform was to be wasted in a summer of rancour and division. Mourinho complained about the absence of players due to the World Cup, a lack of progress on transfers, Antonio Valencia's off-season training and Anthony Martial's reluctance to return after the birth of his second child. It was a disastrous few weeks.

But the Mourinho-led meltdown of 2018 is an exception to the rule. In dressing rooms around the Premier League, there is a sigh of relief when clubs confirm that America is the pre-season destination of choice and that will be the case for United's squad.

READ MORE: United confirm plans for summer tour to America

There is significant jetlag to combat in Australia, a venue United have been to twice since their last American trip, while the humidity, intensity and cuisine can be difficult to deal with in the Far East. If the United States feels like a home away from home, then trips to popular touring countries such as China, Japan and Singapore can be much harder to navigate for players used to routines.

In confirming that they would be going back to the USA this summer, United's football director John Murtough touched on its popularity with players and the quality of training venues.

“This will be our first visit to the US for five years and everyone at the club is looking forward to it, especially the players, who love the