Manchester United have identified Sporting Lisbon's highly-rated manager Ruben Amorim as their prime target should they decide to sack Erik ten Hag, according to exclusive reports.
The Red Devils' new hierarchy, led by INEOS chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is conducting a thorough end-of-season review following a disappointing campaign that saw United finish eighth in the Premier League - their worst performance in the competition's history.
INEOS Considering Drastic Changes
Despite Ten Hag securing an unlikely FA Cup victory against rivals Manchester City, the Dutchman's position remains under serious threat. Club sources indicate that the cup win hasn't guaranteed his survival as INEOS implement their long-term vision for the club.
The decision on Ten Hag's future is expected imminently, with the manager currently left in limbo while Ratcliffe and his team evaluate all aspects of the football operation.
Why Amorim Tops the Shortlist
Ruben Amorim has emerged as the standout candidate after impressive work at Sporting Lisbon, where he led the club to their first league title in 19 years during the 2020-21 season and repeated the feat this campaign.
The 39-year-old Portuguese tactician is admired for his attractive, attacking style of football and proven track record of developing young talent - qualities that align perfectly with INEOS' proposed rebuild at Old Trafford.
Other candidates previously linked with the role, including England boss Gareth Southgate and former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel, now appear to be secondary options to Amorim.
What This Means for Ten Hag
Erik ten Hag faces an anxious wait as the club's leadership deliberates his fate. The former Ajax manager still has one year remaining on his contract but could be dismissed despite the FA Cup triumph.
United's eighth-place finish and early Champions League exit have significantly damaged Ten Hag's standing, with the new regime showing little sentimentality in their assessment of the club's direction.
The coming days are likely to bring clarity to a situation that has kept the football world guessing, with Amorim waiting in the wings should United pull the trigger on their current manager.
