Manchester United's new hierarchy under Sir Jim Ratcliffe is secretly lining up Sporting Lisbon's highly-rated manager Ruben Amorim as their number one candidate to replace Erik ten Hag, should they decide to make a dramatic change this summer.
The Red Devils' disappointing Premier League campaign has left Ten Hag's future hanging by a thread, with INEOS chief Ratcliffe and his team conducting a thorough review of the football operations at Old Trafford.
The Portuguese Prodigy on United's Radar
Amorim, who led Sporting to their first league title in 19 years during the 2020-21 season, has emerged as the standout candidate to potentially take the reins at the Theatre of Dreams. The 39-year-old tactician has built an impressive reputation for his attractive, attacking style of football and his ability to develop young talent.
Sources close to the club suggest that Amorim's name has been extensively discussed in recruitment meetings, with his work at Sporting closely monitored by United's revamped scouting department.
Ten Hag's Uncertain Future
Despite winning the Carabao Cup in his debut season and reaching the FA Cup final this year, Ten Hag has faced mounting pressure following United's worst-ever Premier League finish. The team's eighth-place position and negative goal difference have raised serious questions about the Dutchman's long-term viability.
United's new technical director Jason Wilcox is currently conducting an in-depth audit of the club's playing style and squad, with his findings expected to play a crucial role in determining Ten Hag's fate.
Why Amorim Appeals to Ratcliffe's Vision
The Portuguese manager fits the profile of what Ratcliffe and INEOS are looking for in several key areas:
- Proven track record of developing young players and implementing an attractive playing philosophy
- European experience with successful campaigns in both Champions League and Europa League
- Tactical flexibility with the ability to adapt formations and systems
- Strong personality to handle the pressure of managing one of football's biggest clubs
Amorim's contract with Sporting includes a substantial release clause, believed to be in the region of £12.8 million, which United would need to trigger to secure his services.
The Competition for Top Talent
United aren't the only Premier League club monitoring Amorim's situation. The Portuguese manager has previously been linked with Chelsea and Tottenham, though his preference is understood to be a project with clear long-term vision and proper structural support.
With Liverpool also searching for Jurgen Klopp's successor before ultimately appointing Arne Slot, the managerial market has become increasingly competitive, making Amorim one of the most sought-after coaches in European football.
As the season reaches its climax, all eyes will be on Old Trafford to see whether Ratcliffe pulls the trigger on one of the biggest managerial decisions in recent Manchester United history.
