Manchester United is reportedly in talks with Ruben Amorim, currently managing Sporting CP, to replace Erik ten Hag as the club’s head coach. Following United’s recent loss to West Ham, which left them in 14th place in the Premier League standings after nine games, ten Hag was dismissed. Ruud van Nistelrooy has temporarily taken on the role, but Amorim has quickly emerged as the primary candidate for the permanent position.
United is reportedly making swift moves to secure the 39-year-old Amorim, who has previously attracted attention from top Premier League teams like Liverpool and West Ham. Due to a clause in his recent contract extension with Sporting, United could potentially bring him in for a compensation fee of €10 million (£8.3 million), far below his full release clause of €30 million. This cost-effective option has added to the appeal of appointing him.
As part of his proposed strategy, Amorim intends to introduce his own coaching team to help instill his vision and tactical approach. Additionally, Amorim has identified several players from Sporting CP whom he believes could enhance United’s squad. According to TEAMtalk, he has prioritized three players from his current team in Portugal as potential recruits for United.
One primary target on Amorim’s list is Goncalo Inacio, a 23-year-old center-back with a release clause of £51 million, who is also on Liverpool’s radar. United recently added two defenders to their roster, but Amorim reportedly sees Inacio as an essential figure for his defensive structure. Inacio’s youth and versatility are seen as assets that could strengthen United’s backline.
In terms of creativity, Amorim is eyeing winger Marcus Edwards, a former Tottenham youth player now thriving in Portugal. United has struggled with creativity on the wings, and Amorim believes Edwards could provide the necessary spark and width to enhance United’s offensive options.
Another player Amorim has a close relationship with is Pedro Goncalves, a winger known for his scoring consistency. Goncalves, who briefly played for Wolves earlier in his career, has already recorded five goals and five assists this season. Sporting CP is reportedly reluctant to let Goncalves go in the middle of the season, and any move would likely involve a substantial fee.
Although Manchester United has shown keen interest in Amorim, Sporting is preparing for him to remain in charge for their upcoming fixtures. Reports from the Daily Mail suggest that due to a notice period in his contract, Amorim might not be able to leave Sporting immediately and could stay until November.
Amorim’s success in Portugal, where he has already won two Primeira Liga titles and three Taca da Ligas, has drawn comparisons to Jose Mourinho’s early career achievements. His success and tactical prowess have made him one of Europe’s most promising young managers, and United hopes he can bring similar results to Old Trafford if a deal is finalized.
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