Ruben Amorim has reached a verbal agreement to join Manchester United from Sporting Lisbon, according to talkSPORT.
After parting ways with Erik ten Hag, Amorim has become the primary target for United. The club is reportedly prepared to pay the compensation needed to secure his service, as reported on Monday morning.
United are keen to make Amorim their next managerCredit: Getty
As a two-time Portuguese title winner, Amorim has a release clause of £8.3 million in his contract.
Sources from talkSPORT reveal that officials at Manchester United approached Amorim last week and aim to finalize the appointment quickly.
Amorim is regarded as one of the most promising coaches in football and has previously been linked with clubs such as Chelsea, Liverpool, and West Ham.
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Recently, he has surfaced as a viable candidate for the Manchester City position, given that Pep Guardiola is in the last year of his contract with the club.
Nevertheless, United’s deal with Amorim strongly suggests that Guardiola might extend his stay at City for another year.
Amorim, who was also considered for the West Ham role over the summer, began his managerial journey at the Portuguese club Casa Pia in 2018.
Afterward, he joined Braga before moving to Sporting in 2020, where he celebrated winning the Liga Portugal in the subsequent season.
Sporting claimed the championship once more during the 2023/24 season, while also securing two Taca da Liga titles under Amorim’s leadership.
The 39-year-old has led his team to the top of the Portuguese league table this season, boasting a perfect record from nine matches.
In addition, they currently sit eighth in the Champions League group stage, with two victories and a draw from their first three matches.
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Amorim has delivered huge success at SportingCredit: AFP
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He could replace Ten Hag, who was sacked after just over two years in the jobCredit: Getty
United has ended its association with Ten Hag only months after extending his contract with the club until 2026.
During his tenure, the Dutchman secured the Carabao Cup in his first season and the FA Cup in his second, but he has now left Old Trafford.
The previous season witnessed the Red Devils finishing eighth in the league, marking the club’s most disappointing outcome in the Premier League era.
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This season, they have recorded their worst-ever start in the Premier League era, securing only eight points from their first seven matches.
The team has also appeared unsettled in the Europa League, managing to draw all three of their fixtures against FC Twente, Porto, and Fenerbahce.
Amorim is not the sole candidate linked to the United managerial position; Brentford’s Thomas Frank is also highly regarded.
Additionally, Newcastle’s Eddie Howe, who previously collaborated with sporting director Dan Ashworth at the club, is considered a potential candidate now that Ashworth is in Manchester.
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This is an appointment that INEOS desperately need to get rightCredit: Getty
Additionally, Germany’s Julian Nagelsmann is a point of interest, and former Barcelona coach Xavi has engaged in discussions regarding a potential move.
However, Manchester United legend Paul Scholes fears that the club may have already missed out on significant opportunities.
In discussions concerning the ideal permanent successor to Ten Hag, some have pointed out that Manchester United should have pursued current England manager Thomas Tuchel.
“I don’t envision Gareth Southgate as the manager of Manchester United. They need an elite coach who has a proven track record in the sport,” Scholes expressed during his talkSPORT appearance on Monday.
“I believed Thomas Tuchel was an excellent fit for Manchester United. When I heard the news about him, I nearly felt ill because I thought he could have been the right choice to lead Man United.”
“He has triumphed in significant matches and has experience with Bayern Munich and PSG. I believe he possesses the necessary stature…”
“Zidane could be someone to consider, but I doubt he would be eager to make a move to England.”
Ruben Amorim Set to Join Manchester United as New Manager Following Ten Hag’s Departure
Overview of the Situation
Manchester United is on the brink of a significant change in its managerial structure as Ruben Amorim is set to take over the reins following the departure of Erik ten Hag. This decision comes after a tumultuous season for the Red Devils, with inconsistent performances and a need for fresh leadership. Amorim, currently managing Sporting CP, has caught the attention of the club’s hierarchy with his impressive tactical acumen and track record of developing young talents.
Why Ruben Amorim?
Ruben Amorim has emerged as a top candidate for the Manchester United managerial position due to several key factors:
- Tactical Prowess: Amorim is known for his innovative tactics, including a fluid 3-4-3 formation that allows for both defensive solidity and attacking flexibility.
- Player Development: He has a proven ability to nurture young talent, a crucial aspect for a club like Manchester United, which prides itself on its rich history of youth development.
- Winning Mentality: Amorim led Sporting CP to their first Primeira Liga title in 19 years, demonstrating his capability to deliver silverware.
Amorim’s Career Highlights
To better understand Ruben Amorim’s qualifications, let’s take a look at his career achievements:
| Year | Achievement | Club |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Primeira Liga Champion | Sporting CP |
| 2020 | Taca da Liga Champion | Sporting CP |
| 2019 | Primeira Liga Manager of the Month | Sporting CP |
| 2023 | UEFA Europa League Quarter-Finals | Sporting CP |
What Can United Fans Expect from Amorim?
Ruben Amorim’s appointment would signal a new era at Manchester United. Here are some expectations that fans can have:
1. A Modern Tactical Approach
Amorim’s tactical philosophy is characterized by:
- High pressing to regain possession quickly.
- Fluid attacking movements that utilize wing-backs and support from midfield.
- Defensive organization that adapts to the strengths of the opponent.
2. Youth Integration
Manchester United has a rich history of promoting youth talent, and Amorim’s track record suggests he will continue this tradition:
- Incorporating academy graduates into the first-team setup.
- Creating a competitive environment that encourages young players to thrive.
3. Building Team Chemistry
One of Amorim’s strengths is fostering a strong team spirit. Expect him to focus on:
- Creating a cohesive unit that understands and executes his tactical plans.
- Encouraging open communication and collaboration among players.
Key Challenges Ahead
While Amorim’s appointment brings excitement, several challenges await him at Manchester United:
- Squad Overhaul: Assessing the current squad and determining which players fit his system will be crucial.
- Expectations from Fans: The immense pressure to deliver immediate results and restore the club’s status as a top contender.
- Managing Big Personalities: Navigating the dynamics of a star-studded lineup can be challenging, especially with egos involved.
Potential Line-Up Under Amorim
Given Amorim’s tactical preferences and the current Manchester United squad, here’s a potential starting line-up:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | David de Gea |
| Defender | Lisandro Martinez |
| Defender | Ruben Dias |
| Defender | Victor Lindelof |
| Wing-Back | Luke Shaw |
| Wing-Back | Diogo Dalot |
| Midfielder | Bruno Fernandes |
| Forward | Marcus Rashford |
| Forward | Antony |
| Forward | Rasmus Hojlund |
Benefits of Amorim’s Management Style
Ruben Amorim’s management style can yield several benefits for Manchester United:
- Enhanced Team Performance: His tactical flexibility can lead to improved performance on the pitch.
- Youth Development: By prioritizing youth integration, he can revitalize the squad and create a sustainable future.
- Fan Engagement: A modern, attractive style of play can re-engage supporters who have felt disconnected in recent years.
Case Studies: Successful Coaches Transitioning to Premier League
History shows that several managers have successfully transitioned from less celebrated leagues to the Premier League:
| Manager | Previous Club | Success in Premier League |
|---|---|---|
| Jürgen Klopp | Borussia Dortmund | Premier League Champion, UEFA Champions League Winner |
| Antonio Conte | Juventus | Premier League Champion |
| Pep Guardiola | FC Barcelona | Multiple Premier League Titles |
First-Hand Experiences with Ruben Amorim
Players and staff who have worked with Amorim at Sporting CP often highlight his exceptional leadership qualities:
- Motivational Skills: Players mention his ability to motivate them to push their limits.
- Communication: His open-door policy and willingness to engage in dialogue help build trust.
- Strategic Insights: Players appreciate his tactical briefings, which enhance their understanding of match situations.
Conclusion
As Manchester United prepares for a new chapter under the guidance of Ruben Amorim, fans and analysts alike await the impact of his arrival. His innovative tactics, focus on youth, and strong leadership could be the key to revitalizing the club and restoring its place among England’s elite football clubs.
