In a significant development for Manchester United's protracted search for a new manager, top target Ruben Amorim has seemingly ruled himself out of the running. The highly-rated Sporting Lisbon boss has publicly declared his commitment to the Portuguese giants, dealing a potential blow to Sir Jim Ratcliffe's plans at Old Trafford.
The 39-year-old, who led Sporting to their first league title in 19 years in 2021, has been heavily linked with a summer switch to the Premier League. He was widely viewed as a leading candidate to replace the under-pressure Erik ten Hag should the Dutchman be relieved of his duties.
However, speaking ahead of Sporting's crucial Taça de Portugal semi-final clash with Benfica, Amorim moved to quash the mounting speculation. 'I’ll be here at Sporting next season,' he emphatically told reporters. 'I have a contract and I want to stay. This is the club I want to be at.'
This public declaration of loyalty throws a major spanner in the works for Manchester United's hierarchy. With uncertainty still clouding Ten Hag's future following a disappointing campaign, the club had been conducting a thorough review of potential successors.
Amorim's impressive track record, modern tactical approach, and success in developing young talent had made him an attractive proposition for the new INEOS-led regime seeking a long-term project.
His decision to stay in Lisbon now forces United to either persist with Ten Hag or look elsewhere in their managerial hunt. Other names like England boss Gareth Southgate and former Chelsea manager Graham Potter have also been mentioned in connection with the role, but Amorim was considered a frontrunner.
This news will be a huge boost for Sporting fans, who see Amorim as the architect of their recent success. His commitment provides stability as they look to build on their current Primeira Liga title charge.
For United, the search for certainty continues, with one of their most favoured options now appearing to be off the table.
