Artist Fanny Gogh is ‘upset’ after chiefs withdraw portrait from auction and is set to paint pics of Wenger and Allardyce
UNITED boss Jose Mourinho has refused to sign a portrait commissioned by Old Trafford — as he doesn’t think fans view him as the “Special One” just yet.
The picture shows the 53-year-old in a Superman vest — with an “M” on his chest.
Club insiders said he feared it was “inappropriate’’ as he had yet to establish himself there.
Now the portrait has now been withdrawn by the Manchester United Foundation from auction at the club’s annual UNICEF gala at the end of October.
Artist Fanny Gogh, 45 who spent two weeks on the work said: ”When I got the call from United to do the portrait I was so excited, my parents met through the club and my whole family are big supporters so it was something I really wanted to do.
“I’m a big fan of Jose, I think he’s a very successful and powerful man, that’s where I got the inspiration to paint him as a superhero.
“I was really upset when I heard Jose refused to sign the painting. In my eyes, he still has the power to become a superhero although I respect his decision.
“I just hope when he does feel he’s reached superhero status; he’ll get back in touch.
“It’s very disappointing to know it won’t be auctioned at the gala dinner because a worthwhile cause will benefit from its sale. ”
Mourinho dubbed himself “The Special One” in 2004 while he was managing Chelsea.
He said in a press conference: ”Please don’t call me arrogant, but I’m European champion and I think I’m a special one”.
Fanny is also due to paint portraits of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp and shamed ex-England coach Sam Allardyce, all of which will be exhibited at the National Football Museum.
The paintings will later be sold off to raise money for charity.
Discussion about this post