"My dream is to play for Manchester United," the 32-year-old told reporters at a Germany news conference on Tuesday, reflecting on his bad luck with injuries last season.
"I believe in my ability. I have spoken to Mourinho and have no problem with him. I know what his goals are but I also know what I want. We will have to see what happens in September. But I will certainly not stop playing football, he added.
"Football has ups and downs. It is a tough business and, unfortunately, not just a sport."
The 2014 World Cup winner announced his retirement from international football in July and Wednesday's friendly against Finland will be his 121st and last game for his country.
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"I'm glad that I got the chance to get a farewell game. Of course, it's emotional," he said. "I had wonderful years here and feel a gratitude to be able to make 120 appearances for Germany."
Schweinsteiger played at three World Cups and four European championship tournaments though his international career ended in disappointment with a 2-0 defeat to France in the Euro 2016 semi-finals.
(Writing by Brian Homewood in Berne, editing by Ed Osmond)
