In a dramatic twist to Manchester United's ongoing managerial saga, Sporting CP's highly-rated coach Ruben Amorim has emerged as a genuine contender for the hot seat at Old Trafford.
The future of current boss Erik ten Hag hangs in the balance following a disappointing Premier League campaign and a shock early exit from the Champions League. Despite the Dutchman's success in securing last season's Carabao Cup, the club's new minority owners, INEOS, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, are conducting a thorough review of the football operations.
INEOS Draws Up New Shortlist
A comprehensive audit is underway to determine the best path forward for the club. As part of this process, the 39-year-old Portuguese sensation Amorim has been added to a refreshed list of potential candidates.
This development is particularly intriguing as it signals a potential shift in strategy. While the club has previously been linked with high-profile names like Gareth Southgate, the pursuit of a younger, tactically astute manager like Amorim suggests a desire for a more progressive appointment.
The Amorim Appeal
So, what makes Ruben Amorim such an attractive prospect for the Red Devils?
- Proven Winner: He famously led Sporting to their first Primeira Liga title in 19 years during the 2020/21 season, breaking the dominance of Porto and Benfica.
- Attacking Philosophy: Amorim is renowned for his dynamic, attacking brand of football, often deploying an aggressive 3-4-3 formation that would excite the Old Trafford faithful.
- Youth Development: He has a strong track record of improving young players, a key quality for any United manager given the club's proud history of promoting youth.
His current contract with Sporting includes a substantial release clause, believed to be in the region of £13 million, a fee that would not be a significant barrier for a club of United's stature.
Ten Hag's Uncertain Future
The report underscores the precarious position of Erik ten Hag. While he retains some backing for his previous achievements, the inconsistent performances and results this season have placed him under intense scrutiny.
The decision on his future is not expected to be a swift one. INEOS is determined to conduct a meticulous and data-driven process before making a final call, ensuring the next appointment is the right long-term fit for their new project.
For now, the managerial rumour mill is in full swing, with Ruben Amorim's name now firmly at the heart of the conversation.
