Ruben Amorim, currently the head coach of Sporting CP, is on the verge of an exciting yet challenging shift in his coaching career. With Erik ten Hag recently dismissed as Manchester United manager, the club is pushing forward to secure Amorim as their new head coach. The Portuguese manager hinted at his motivations in a recent press conference, suggesting there’s “something missing” for him in his current role, despite his success at Sporting. As Amorim prepares for his likely move, let's dive into why this decision seems to be the right one for both him and United.
What Ruben Amorim Said
When asked about his interest in joining Manchester United, Amorim was reflective. “In life, we all have phases in which we are doing very well, but something is missing,” he said, explaining that he feels the need to “take a step forward.” Amorim’s words reflect an ambition for growth and challenge—a mindset that has driven his success thus far.
On the ongoing negotiations between Sporting CP and United, Amorim noted the complexities of managing a deal between two clubs, stating, “It’s a negotiation between two clubs, which is never easy, even with the termination clauses.” His move to United will come at a significant cost, with United agreeing to a release clause fee of £9.2 million ($11 million) to secure the Portuguese manager. This level of investment demonstrates the faith United has in Amorim's abilities to reshape the team.
Amorim also expressed his love for the Premier League, responding with “Everything!” when asked what he admired about English football. This enthusiasm for the league’s culture and intensity highlights his eagerness to face the challenge of managing in one of the world’s toughest leagues.
The Bigger Picture
Amorim’s move comes at a critical time for Manchester United, with the club currently struggling to regain its dominance. The recent transfer window saw the club invest around £200 million ($257 million) in new players, adding to the pressure on Amorim to turn the team around. His tactical skillset and ability to nurture young talent have been apparent at Sporting CP, where he transformed the squad into one of Portugal’s top teams. United will hope that he can bring a similar transformation to Old Trafford.
While the deal is nearly complete, it is expected that Amorim will not officially take charge until mid-November. In the meantime, former United player Ruud van Nistelrooy is serving as interim manager. Van Nistelrooy will lead United in their upcoming matches, including a Premier League showdown with Chelsea and a Europa League match against PAOK.
What’s Next?
For now, both Sporting CP and Manchester United fans are waiting for the final confirmation of Amorim’s move. If all goes according to plan, Amorim’s first match in charge of United will take place after the international break. With a five-year contract reportedly on the table, this transition marks the beginning of a new era for Manchester United and a significant step in Amorim’s career.
Ruben Amorim Can be considered the New Manchester United manager