Manchester United have identified Sporting CP's highly-rated manager, Ruben Amorim, as a leading contender to take the helm at Old Trafford, should the club decide to part ways with current boss Erik ten Hag.
The pressure is intensifying on the Dutchman following a dismal second season, with new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS group conducting a thorough end-of-season review. This evaluation is expected to determine Ten Hag's fate, with Amorim now firmly on their radar.
Why Amorim is in High Demand
The 39-year-old Portuguese coach is one of the most sought-after young managers in European football. He has masterminded Sporting's charge towards a second Liga Portugal title in four years, playing an attractive, aggressive brand of football that has impressed United's new decision-makers.
Amorim's potential availability has alerted several top clubs, but the project at United, backed by the ambitious INEOS, is believed to hold significant appeal.
The Stakes for Erik ten Hag
For Ten Hag, the final games of the season are now an audition to save his job. A failure to secure Champions League qualification, coupled with an early exit from the Europa League and a disastrous Carabao Cup defence, has severely damaged his standing.
The INEOS-led football operation, including new CEO Omar Berrada and incoming sporting director Dan Ashworth, is determined to make a clean, data-driven decision on the managerial position, with sentiment playing no part.
While winning the FA Cup could provide a late reprieve, the momentum is undeniably building towards a change, with Ruben Amorim waiting in the wings.
