In a stunning twist that has sent shockwaves through the football world, Manchester United have abruptly ended their pursuit of Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim, with current boss Erik ten Hag now expected to remain at the helm.
The dramatic U-turn comes after extensive talks between Amorim and United officials completely broke down, despite the Portuguese manager being heavily tipped as the leading candidate to replace the under-pressure Dutchman.
FA Cup Final Heroics Change Everything
Ten Hag's remarkable FA Cup final victory over arch-rivals Manchester City at Wembley appears to have been the decisive factor in United's change of heart. The stunning 2-1 win against the Premier League champions provided the perfect response to months of speculation about his future.
INEOS sporting director Sir Dave Brailsford and technical director Jason Wilcox were reportedly impressed by the team's performance and Ten Hag's tactical approach in what many considered a make-or-break match for his United career.
Amorim Talks Hit Unexpected Roadblock
Despite travelling for negotiations and being the clear frontrunner for the position, Amorim's proposed move to Old Trafford has completely unravelled. Sources indicate that discussions reached an impasse over several key issues, leaving United's hierarchy with a critical decision to make.
The collapse of the Amorim deal represents a significant setback in United's summer restructuring plans, forcing a rapid reassessment of their managerial strategy just weeks before the transfer window opens.
What This Means for Ten Hag's Future
With the Amorim option now off the table, United are preparing to enter contract extension talks with Ten Hag, whose current deal expires in 2025. The Dutchman, who has endured a challenging Premier League campaign, now appears to have secured at least another season to continue his rebuilding project.
The decision marks a remarkable turnaround for a manager who many believed was certain to be dismissed regardless of the FA Cup outcome, highlighting the unpredictable nature of football's managerial merry-go-round.
