Ruben Amorim's turbulent tenure at Manchester United has been abruptly ended, but the Portuguese manager is not expected to be out of work for long, with a clear future destination already being discussed by influential figures in his homeland.
Dinner Meeting Hints at Future Role
Manchester United confirmed Amorim's dismissal on Monday morning, with the club languishing in sixth place in the Premier League after less than 14 months under his leadership. However, intrigue around his next step has been brewing since September, following a revealing meeting in Manchester.
Former Benfica and Portugal striker Nuno Gomes, who is a candidate for the vice-presidency at the Lisbon club, met with Amorim after the Manchester derby in September. Also present was Manchester City's sporting director, Hugo Viana. Gomes has now disclosed details of that dinner, confirming his long-held belief about Amorim's ultimate destiny.
"Convinced" He Will Coach Benfica One Day
In an interview with Now, as reported by A Bola, Gomes stated he is certain Amorim will eventually take the helm at Benfica. "I am convinced that Ruben Amorim will one day be Benfica's coach," Gomes asserted. He revealed that he had previously recommended Amorim for a role at the club years ago, but the now-40-year-old turned down the opportunity to manage Benfica's B team while he was in charge of Casa Pia.
Gomes described Amorim as a person with "very strong convictions" and acknowledged his renowned stubbornness, a trait observed during his successful spell as manager of Benfica's rivals, Sporting CP, where he won two league titles. Interestingly, the September meeting took place just days before Benfica sacked their then-manager Bruno Lage following a Champions League loss to Qarabag.
Amorim's United Tenure Ends, Decision Awaits
Amorim's exit from Old Trafford leaves him at a career crossroads, but with a significant admirer in his corner. His legacy at United will be one of unfulfilled promise, with the team failing to mount a serious title challenge during his brief reign.
Meanwhile, at Benfica, things have stabilised under new manager Jose Mourinho, with the club close to a Champions League play-off spot and within touching distance of second-placed Sporting in the Primeira Liga. For Manchester United, first-team coach Darren Fletcher will take temporary charge for the midweek fixture against Burnley as the club begins its search for a permanent successor.
The stage is now set for Amorim's next move. While an immediate return to Portugal may not be imminent, the public endorsement from a figure like Nuno Gomes strongly suggests that a future homecoming to Estadio da Luz—where Amorim won three league titles as a player—remains a distinct possibility.
