In a significant blow to Manchester United's summer overhaul plans, prime managerial target Ruben Amorim has publicly declared his intention to stay at Sporting CP, throwing the club's search for a potential Erik ten Hag replacement into disarray.
The highly-rated Portuguese coach, who has been heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford, has poured cold water on the speculation by affirming his commitment to the Liga Portugal champions. This announcement deals a major setback to United's new hierarchy, led by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS.
Scholes Backs Premier League Proven Alternative
With the Amorim deal now appearing dead in the water, United legends are weighing in on who should take the helm. Club icon Paul Scholes has thrown his weight behind an "outstanding" and currently employed Premier League manager, suggesting he possesses the ideal pedigree for the mammoth task at Old Trafford.
Scholes praised the unnamed boss's attractive, attacking style of football and his proven ability to develop young talent and build a cohesive team—qualities desperately needed at United. This endorsement will fuel speculation linking the club to managers like Graham Potter or Thomas Frank.
Ten Hag's Future Hangs in the Balance
The ongoing managerial saga casts a long shadow over the future of current boss Erik ten Hag. Despite securing an FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, the Dutchman's position remains precarious following a dismal Premier League campaign that saw the club finish a lowly eighth.
The decision now rests with the new INEOS-led sporting department. They must determine whether to persist with Ten Hag or accelerate their pursuit of an alternative like Scholes' recommendation, all while navigating a crowded field of elite clubs also seeking new managers.
United's search for stability and a return to their former glory has just become a great deal more complicated, setting the stage for a pivotal summer at the Theatre of Dreams.
