Mourinho: Depay's chance will come in cup competitions
Jose Mourinho hasn't gained himself a reputation for honing youngsters during his managerial career and, following the permanent exit of Paddy McNair and loan departure of Adnan Januzaj, it appears he could be following this trait.
But at youth-championing Manchester United, famed for the Busby Babes and Class of '92, this policy may not be as welcomed - particularly if it means £25-million man Memphis Depay and local lad Marcus Rashford are left out.
Mourinho has insisted both will play a part this term, however, although Depay's minutes may be confined to lesser competitions. The Dutch winger was excluded from the matchday squad for last Sunday's 2-1 Community Shield beating of Leicester City, but was named on the bench for Sunday's trip to Bournemouth.
"Depay is very much part of my squad," Mourinho stressed. "I know you look at the last match and he was not even on the bench, but in September we have the EFL Cup, Europa League, and Premier League, so that will be the end of the frustration for the players not being selected at the moment."
The 22-year-old signed last summer from PSV Eindhoven, but cut an increasingly peripheral figure in Louis van Gaal's plans. Criticism was leveled at Depay, too, like suggestions of having his head turned by avarice rather than striving for achievements on the pitch.
Mourinho added: "You can see him driving a nice car and think his mind is not on football, but that is not the case. I don't care what people think, I believe in him. He is frustrated with what happened last season when he lost all his confidence, but he will be back."
For Rashford, first-team inclusion should continue. The 18-year-old exploded onto the scene after making his debut in February, tallying eight goals across all competitions to earn a spot in Roy Hodgson's England squad. As a product of nearby Fletcher Moss Rangers boys team, the Old Trafford faithful have quickly taken to the precocious striker.
"Potentially he's a very good player indeed and he is already a good professional. The way he works and the way he lives, it is all good," Mourinho continued.
"Whether he remains in the England squad is up to Big Sam (Allardyce) now, it is not my decision, but I can say he is one of my important players and he will play a lot this season. After that Sam will make up his own mind."
Following Sunday's season opener at Bournemouth, United hosts Southampton on Friday for what should be Paul Pogba's debut after the Frenchman serves his suspension.