In a dramatic twist to the ongoing saga at Old Trafford, Sporting CP's highly-rated manager Ruben Amorim has publicly shut down talks of an imminent move to Manchester United. The revelation deals a crushing blow to the Red Devils' hierarchy as they scour the market for Erik ten Hag's potential successor.
The 39-year-old coaching prodigy, who has also been linked with a move to Liverpool, confirmed he had not been contacted by any English club and poured cold water on the feverish speculation. His statement comes after a week of intense media frenzy suggesting he was a top contender for the United hot seat.
Amorim's Firm Stance on Future
Speaking candidly to reporters, Amorim stated, 'I did not meet any English club for any interview.' He went further to address the direct links with Manchester United, adding, 'The only thing I want to make clear is that I did not meet any club. Nothing has been agreed.'
This firm denial throws a major spanner in the works for United's new minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, and his INEOS team, who are believed to be conducting a thorough review of the managerial position following a disappointing season.
What This Means for Manchester United
With Amorim seemingly out of the running, the search for a new leader becomes increasingly complex. The pressure on current manager Erik ten Hag has been immense, with the club's form faltering and a top-four finish in the Premier League looking increasingly unlikely.
The United board now faces a critical decision: stick with the under-fire Dutchman or accelerate their pursuit of alternative candidates. Other names like Gareth Southgate and Graham Potter have been mentioned, but Amorim was considered a frontrunner due to his attacking philosophy and proven track record of success in Portugal.
A Blow to Liverpool Plans Too?
Interestingly, Amorim's comments also impact Liverpool's search for Jurgen Klopp's replacement. Having been heavily favoured to take the reins at Anfield, his assertion that he has not met with any English club suggests that a move to Merseyside is also not as advanced as previously reported.
This development leaves one of the most captivating managerial markets in recent years wide open, with two of England's biggest clubs now forced to reconsider their strategies in the dugout.
