Manchester United is reportedly on the brink of confirming Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim as their new head coach, following a final agreement with the Portuguese club. The Athletic reported that the 39-year-old will remain with Sporting for their upcoming three matches, including a high-stakes Champions League clash against Manchester City next week, before officially taking charge at Old Trafford during the November international break. His first game as United manager is expected to be an away fixture against Ipswich Town on November 24.
According to Sky Sports, Manchester United paid Sporting Lisbon an additional €1 million on top of Amorim’s €10 million ($11 million) exit clause to expedite his release. Sporting Lisbon confirmed to the Lisbon stock exchange that United had agreed to the financial terms necessary for his departure, a move that reflects the English club’s determination to bring in fresh leadership swiftly following a series of disappointing performances under former manager Erik ten Hag.
The decision to part ways with Ten Hag came after a challenging two-year tenure that culminated in a 2-1 loss to West Ham, leaving United languishing in 14th place in the Premier League. Despite a significant summer transfer investment aimed at bolstering the squad, United’s results have fallen far below expectations, with only one victory in their last eight matches prior to a recent League Cup triumph.
In the interim, club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy took over as caretaker manager, guiding United to an emphatic 5-2 victory over Leicester City in the League Cup’s fourth round. Reflecting on his temporary role, Van Nistelrooy expressed his commitment to the club, saying, “I came here as an assistant to help the club. I’m helping as long as I’m needed, and in the future, in any capacity, I’m here to help the club build towards the future.”
Amorim, who has gained widespread recognition for his tactical acumen and leadership at Sporting Lisbon, quickly emerged as United’s top managerial choice following Ten Hag’s departure. Known for his innovative strategies and impressive achievements in Portugal’s Primeira Liga, Amorim is widely respected as one of Europe’s most promising young managers. Since taking over Sporting in 2020, he has led the team to multiple domestic successes and earned accolades for his focus on youth development and rigorous training regimes.
As United looks to rejuvenate their squad, Amorim’s appointment signals a strategic shift and renewed focus on discipline, energy, and adaptability in their play. Fans and analysts alike are hopeful that his leadership will address lingering issues within the team, drive positive results, and lay a strong foundation for the club’s future.
With Amorim set to take the reins soon, the atmosphere around Old Trafford is charged with anticipation as supporters look forward to the new era his appointment promises. The next few weeks will provide insight into how the Portuguese manager’s methods will translate onto the Premier League stage, as Manchester United aims to climb back into contention and revitalize their reputation as a top European football powerhouse.
