In a seismic twist to Manchester United's summer saga, it can be exclusively revealed that prime managerial target Ruben Amorim delivered a stunning snub to the Old Trafford hierarchy, rejecting an approach to become the club's new boss.
The Sporting Lisbon manager, hailed as one of Europe's most coveted coaches, was the number one choice for INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe as they conducted a exhaustive end-of-season review. This rejection ultimately paved the way for the decision to stick with current manager Erik ten Hag.
The Secret Approach That Failed
Despite public declarations of conducting a thorough review, United's interest in Amorim was far more advanced than previously understood. Behind the scenes, direct contact was established with the 39-year-old's representatives to gauge his interest in the potentially vacant hot seat.
To the shock of the United powerbrokers, Amorim unequivocally declined the opportunity, forcing a dramatic re-think of their entire strategy. This rejection is understood to have been a critical factor in the final decision to retain faith in Ten Hag, who has since agreed a new contract.
Why Amorim Said 'No' to Old Trafford
The reasons behind Amorim's surprising decision are multifaceted. Sources close to the manager suggest a combination of factors played a part:
- Project Stability: Amorim is deeply invested in his project at Sporting, having just secured a famous Liga Portugal title.
- Structural Apprehension: Concerns over the much-criticised structure above the manager at Manchester United.
- Future Options: A belief that other elite opportunities may arise in the near future, potentially with a more stable foundation.
His commitment to Sporting was further demonstrated by the signing of a new contract in the autumn, though it contains a release clause for specific clubs.
Ten Hag's Reprieve and New Deal
Amorim's rejection left United's leadership with a stark choice. With other targets like Thomas Tuchel also dropping out of the running, and a lack of overwhelming alternatives, sticking with Ten Hag emerged as the most logical path.
The Dutchman's FA Cup victory, securing European football, ultimately provided the perfect platform to justify his continuation. Negotiations over a new contract are now advanced, though the deal is expected to include performance-related clauses reflective of the new INEOS regime's demands.
This remarkable sequence of events reveals the turbulent uncertainty that clouded Old Trafford and demonstrates that Amorim's name was at the very top of United's wishlist, before his stunning refusal changed the club's destiny.
