Mourinho was brought in three years later after David Moyes and Louis van Gaal struggled, going on to lift the Europa League, EFL Cup and Community Shield in his first season.

The FA Cup and Champions League are in the Portuguese's crosshairs this term along with runners-up spot in the Premier League, with the title already beyond them given Manchester City's remarkable form.

Former United midfielder Fortune has been impressed as anyone by the "noisy neighbours" this season, but believes the Red Devils are on track to kick on again in the next campaign.

"It's a little bit frustrating to see us in second position, but City has been outstanding this season and it will be a miracle to catch them," Fortune said ahead of Monday's trip to Crystal Palace.

"They are going to have to lose every single game and we're going to have to win every single game, but the signs are there for next season and there's still a lot to play for this season.

"The way we're playing looks very difficult to beat in any competition, so I hope next season we'll go that extra step further and win the league.

"I am sure there will be changes in the summer. The manager will want to strengthen the team and that's part of being a Manchester United player.

"You want to improve, you want to have competition and I am sure the manager will strengthen his team and try to win the league next year."

One area that United will struggle to improve is between the sticks.

David De Gea has been in outstanding form once again this season, including a standout display that ensured the recent Champions League last 16 first leg at Sevilla would end 0-0.

Fortune is another to have swapped Atletico Madrid for United and the South African continues to be taken aback by the Spain goalkeeper.

"When he arrived at Old Trafford, he was a bit rocky at the start of his career but the improvement he has made has been unbelievable," Fortune said at the re-opening of the Red Cafe, supported by United's official club coffee partner Melitta.

"When you look at the last couple of seasons, he has been player of the year - which is a little bit weird for a Manchester United goalkeeper.

"I think the position we are in the league and all the competition, I think David's played a big role in that. Look at some of the games this season - he has kept us in games. The Seville game, especially, he was outstanding.

"In my opinion, he's probably the best goalkeeper in the world at this moment in time and we hope that continues. He's been absolutely brilliant, and we hope we can keep him here for many years to come."

Quinton Fortune was speaking at the re-opening of the Red Cafe at Old Trafford, supported by United's official club coffee partner Melitta.