In a stunning development that could reshape the future of Manchester United, Sporting CP's highly coveted manager Ruben Amorim has laid out a series of non-negotiable demands to take the helm at Old Trafford—with the potential sacrifice of homegrown star Marcus Rashford topping the list.
The 39-year-old coaching prodigy, fresh from clinching the Portuguese league title, has emerged as the frontrunner to succeed the under-pressure Erik ten Hag. However, his vision for the club comes with seismic conditions that would signal the most dramatic overhaul in the club's modern history.
The Amorim Doctrine: Total Control or No Deal
Central to Amorim's audacious plan is a requirement for complete sporting autonomy. The Mirror can reveal he would demand final say on all football matters, effectively overhauling the current structure led by incoming sporting director Dan Ashworth. This power shift would represent a fundamental change in how the football operation is run.
Perhaps most controversially, Amorim's blueprint includes a ruthless assessment of the current squad. Despite Rashford's deep roots at the club and his monumental 30-goal campaign last season, the Portuguese tactician would reportedly sanction the sale of the England international if he deemed it necessary for his tactical system.
Rashford's Uncertain Future
The potential departure of the 26-year-old academy graduate would send shockwaves through the fanbase. Rashford, who signed a lucrative £300,000-per-week contract extension just last summer, has struggled for consistency this season amidst off-pitch controversies.
While Paris Saint-Germain has been frequently mentioned as a potential suitor, particularly as a replacement for the possibly departing Kylian Mbappé, any move would represent a huge gamble for both player and club.
A New Era Demands Drastic Measures
Amorim's potential appointment signals United's readiness to embrace a radical new direction. His success at Sporting, where he broke Benfica and Porto's dominance while implementing an exciting, high-press system, has made him one of Europe's most sought-after managers.
The conditions he's set demonstrate a manager aware of his value and uncompromising in his philosophy. For United's new hierarchy, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, meeting these demands would be the clearest statement yet of their intent to rebuild the club from the ground up—no matter how difficult the decisions may be.
As the summer approaches, all eyes remain on Old Trafford. The choice between backing their established star or embracing a revolutionary new vision may define United's trajectory for years to come.
