Sir Jim Ratcliffe's ambitious overhaul of Manchester United has hit a significant stumbling block as the club's pursuit of highly-rated Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim has dramatically collapsed.
The Independent can reveal that Amorim, who had emerged as a leading candidate to replace Erik ten Hag, will not be taking over at Old Trafford this summer despite extensive negotiations.
Summer of Uncertainty at Old Trafford
This development throws Ratcliffe's strategic plans into disarray, coming just weeks after the INEOS billionaire secured sporting control at the historic club. The search for a new manager now returns to square one, with pre-season preparations looming large.
Amorim had been identified as a primary target following his remarkable success at Sporting, where he guided the Portuguese side to their first league title in 19 years and established a reputation as one of Europe's most innovative young coaches.
The Search Continues
United's hierarchy, led by Ratcliffe and his INEOS team, now face mounting pressure to identify an alternative candidate capable of restoring the club to its former glory. The failed Amorim pursuit represents the latest setback in what has become a turbulent period for the Red Devils.
Supporters who had hoped for a swift resolution to the managerial situation following Ratcliffe's arrival are now bracing for a prolonged search during what promises to be a crucial summer transfer window.
The collapse of the Amorim deal raises serious questions about United's recruitment strategy and leaves current manager Erik ten Hag in an increasingly precarious position as the season approaches its conclusion.
