In a dramatic twist to Manchester United's search for a new direction, the club has secretly opened talks with Sporting CP's visionary manager, Rúben Amorim. The 39-year-old Portuguese tactician has emerged as a serious and surprising candidate to potentially succeed the under-pressure Erik ten Hag at the Old Trafford helm.
The revelation, first broken by Mail Sport, indicates a significant shift in the club's thinking. While the public narrative has focused on other names, United's new hierarchy, led by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, has been conducting a thorough and discreet audit of the managerial market.
The Secret Shortlist
Amorim's name is understood to be on a confidential shortlist of candidates being considered by the revamped football operations team. This clandestine approach marks a departure from the club's previous very public recruitment struggles, signalling a new, more strategic era under Ratcliffe's influence.
The fact that contact has been made demonstrates that United are doing their due diligence on a multitude of options, ensuring they are prepared for any eventuality come the season's end.
Why Amorim? The Proven Winner
Rúben Amorim represents a compelling profile for the United project. His credentials are built on a foundation of tangible success:
- Title-Winning Pedigree: He famously ended Sporting's 19-year wait for a Primeira Liga title in 2021, breaking the duopoly of Porto and Benfica.
- Modern Tactical Philosophy: Amorim is a fervent disciple of a dynamic, attacking 3-4-3 system, praised for its tactical flexibility and high-intensity pressing.
- Proven in the Market: He has excelled at developing young talent and making astute signings, evidenced by the £85m sale of Pedro Porro and Matheus Nunes to Premier League clubs.
His potential availability, with a release clause rumoured to be in the region of £17m, makes him a financially viable target compared to some other elite names.
The Stiff Competition
Amorim is not the only name in the frame. The United job remains one of the most coveted in world football, albeit a monstrous challenge. The club's interest in England boss Gareth Southgate has been widely reported, given his strong relationship with INEOS' Director of Sport, Sir Dave Brailsford.
Other potential contenders include:
- Graham Potter: The former Brighton and Chelsea manager is highly admired by the new United leadership for his progressive style and club-building capabilities.
- Thomas Frank: The Brentford manager's impressive work on a limited budget has not gone unnoticed.
- Roberto De Zerbi: Though recently committing to Brighton, the Italian's thrilling brand of football keeps him on many clubs' radars.
For now, Erik ten Hag remains in charge, fighting to salvage United's season. However, the clandestine move for Amorim confirms that the wheels of change are already in motion at Old Trafford, as the new regime plans for a future built on a clear and modern football identity.
