Jose Mourinho has broken his silence on the departure of fellow Portuguese coach Ruben Amorim from Manchester United, offering pointed advice in the wake of the dismissal.
Mourinho's Candid Message to Amorim
The former Manchester United manager, now in charge at Benfica, suggested that only Amorim himself can truly understand the reasons behind his exit from Old Trafford. Amorim was sacked earlier this week after a disappointing tenure lasting just over a year and a half.
Speaking to Portuguese publication O Jogo, the 62-year-old Mourinho stated, "What happened with Rúben is something that only Rúben can analyse." He expressed confidence that Amorim and his staff would conduct this review privately, but was uncertain if the findings would be made public.
Mourinho, who was himself dismissed by United in December 2018 after two and a half years, declined to draw direct comparisons between their experiences. However, he emphasised his personal policy of moving on without public criticism. "When I leave a club I close the door and then I do not make comments. I do not analyse externally what happened," he explained.
A Door Closes, Another Opens
Reflecting on his own legacy at the club, Mourinho pointed to the trophies he won—the Community Shield, FA Cup, and League Cup—as his lasting contribution. "The history stayed there, the numbers stayed there, the three medals came home and that is it," he remarked.
His central message to the 41-year-old Amorim was one of forward momentum. "A door closes and another one will open. That is what happened when I left," Mourinho said, hinting that new opportunities will arise for the former Sporting Lisbon boss.
When questioned whether Amorim's failure might cast a shadow over other promising young Portuguese managers, Mourinho was dismissive. "I do not understand why it would," he asserted, adding that each coach's career is their own responsibility.
Manchester United's Search for a Successor
With Amorim's departure confirmed, the Red Devils have immediately begun the process of finding a new permanent manager. In a potential twist of fate, reports suggest the club is considering a familiar face for an interim role.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who succeeded Mourinho back in 2018, is reportedly in informal talks about returning to the dugout on a temporary basis for a second time. This would be a stop-gap measure while the club's hierarchy identifies a long-term solution.
Other internal candidates are also in the frame, including former midfielders Michael Carrick and Darren Fletcher, who both have coaching experience at the club. The decision underscores the turbulent period at Old Trafford as they seek stability following Amorim's brief and unsuccessful reign.
The coming weeks will be critical for Manchester United as they aim to salvage their season and appoint a leader capable of restoring the club to its former glory.
