Ruben Amorim has officially begun his tenure as Manchester United head coach, replacing Erik ten Hag. The Portuguese manager, who arrived in England on Monday, will take charge of his first match when the Reds travel to Ipswich Town on November 24. His appointment has sparked optimism at Old Trafford, with supporters hoping he can replicate the success he achieved at Sporting Lisbon.
Amorim has already met several players, including Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, Leny Yoro and Luke Shaw. In his early comments, he stressed that the project is a long-term one and highlighted five young talents: 'You have young players like Kobbie, Amad, Garna, Rasmus, Leny, almost coming back from injury. There's excitement at that potential.' He added that the squad is prepared to handle the demands of playing for United.
The 39-year-old made giving the team a clear identity his first priority. He also spoke about the hunger for success among the hierarchy, naming Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Sir Dave Brailsford, and key executives Omar Berrada, Dan Ashworth and Jason Wilcox as people who are determined to win trophies.
While major additions in January appear unlikely, Amorim hinted at a possible raid of his former club Sporting Lisbon next summer. Away from the new head coach, former midfielder Paul Pogba confirmed he has mutually terminated his contract with Juventus, becoming a free agent after his doping ban was reduced to 18 months. Meanwhile, Arsenal legend Ian Wright criticised an Ineos decision to move the women's team out of their training facilities, calling it 'far from pleasing'.
