Ruben Amorim is closing in on a return to management with AC Milan, which will set him on course to face his former club Manchester United in a pre-season friendly this summer.
Amorim Agrees Deal with AC Milan
The Portuguese boss has agreed a deal to become the new AC Milan manager, having been out of work since his dismissal from Old Trafford in January. Milan finished fifth in Serie A, missing out on Champions League qualification, which cost Max Allegri his job. The club considered now-departed Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner but ultimately chose Amorim.
Pre-Season Clash with United
Amorim's move will put him on a collision course with his former side. Milan are set to conclude their pre-season preparations against Manchester United in Wroclaw on 15 August. Amorim was replaced by Michael Carrick in the New Year, and United enjoyed a sensational run of form, rising to third in the Premier League after veering away from his tactics.
Compensation Waived
Amorim was axed after just 14 months, entitling him to compensation. He and his coaching staff were set to cost United up to £15.9 million. However, reports in Italy claim Amorim will forego the year's pay he was owed as he prepares to return to management. Should the move be confirmed, his first game in charge will be a pre-season match at Celtic on 25 July.
Amorim's Previous Success
Amorim's work at Sporting Lisbon put him on the map. He broke the Porto-Benfica dominance, ending the club's 19-year wait for a league title in 2021. He won the league again in 2024 and twice claimed the Portuguese Cup, prompting United to hire him as Erik ten Hag's replacement. Last month, Amorim distanced himself from the vacancy at former club Benfica when Jose Mourinho left for Real Madrid. At Milan, he is set to manage English international Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Christian Pulisic.
