- Sporting Lisbon's Ruben Amorim is nearing a move to Manchester United to succeed Erik ten Hag, with United officials already in Lisbon for final negotiations
- Amorim’s exit demands include an £8.3 million release clause and additional compensation for three trusted coaching staff members he intends to bring to Old Trafford
- Known for his strict discipline, Amorim’s no-nonsense approach promises a shake-up at United, and Sporting fans have expressed disappointment as rival fans celebrate his imminent departure
With Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim in advanced talks to succeed Erik ten Hag at Old Trafford, Manchester United players are bracing for the arrival of a strict new head coach who has quickly gained a reputation for his no-nonsense approach.
According to sources close to the negotiations, key United officials are currently in Lisbon, discussing the backroom staff Amorim intends to bring along. Sporting Lisbon, aware of the impact of his likely departure, have emphasised that they want his exit handled respectfully, especially given Amorim’s £8.3 million release clause.
At only 39, Amorim is seen as Portugal’s next “Special One,” with some at Sporting comparing his potential impact at United to the revolutionary entrance Jose Mourinho once made in English football.
Sporting’s demands now include an additional £4.15 million in compensation for the immediate release of Amorim and three of his trusted coaches, Carlos Fernandes, Adelio Candido, and goalkeeper coach Jorge Vital. Sporting fans, however, were disappointed by the realisation of his relatively low release clause, particularly as it was designed for “big clubs” like United to activate easily.
Amorim, renowned for his relentless work ethic and discipline, has already agreed to a contract that would double his current annual salary from £2 million to approximately £4.15 million. In his new role, the former Benfica midfielder would demand a high level of commitment from United’s players, who have been warned to expect strict rules and an unyielding approach to training.
“He won’t take any sh*t from anyone,” a source revealed.
Amorim has built a reputation as a coach who eliminates distractions and egos but prioritises collective effort over individual ambition.
While Sporting supporters are feeling the sting of Amorim's likely exit, fans of rival clubs Benfica and Porto are reportedly celebrating the news. The emotional atmosphere in Lisbon last night, during what may have been Amorim's final match as Sporting’s head coach, was described as “funeral,” showing the respect and admiration he’s earned in Portuguese football.
Since joining Sporting in 2020, Amorim has led them to two league titles, three Taca da Liga wins, and five trophies overall, proving himself as one of the continent’s most promising young managers.
With former United star Ruud van Nistelrooy confirmed to handle pre-match media duties ahead of United’s clash with Chelsea on Sunday, November 3rd, United fans and pundits are speculating eagerly on how Amorim’s tactical acumen and strong-willed personality will shape a team looking for both stability and resurgence in a highly competitive Premier League.
As negotiations continue, it remains to be seen if United can finalise their pursuit of Amorim this week, a manager who will now need to live up to the hype.
Man United’s Erik Ten Hag avoids verbal duel with Cristiano Ronaldo amid early season pressure
Previously, TheRadar reported that Erik ten Hag had made it a habit to respond firmly when he believed criticism was unfair. Whether it's shutting down journalists during press conferences or dismissing pundit commentary from the likes of Jamie Carragher and Alan Shearer as "subjective" or "stupid," Ten Hag has built a reputation for standing his ground.
But this time, facing recent comments from Cristiano Ronaldo, a world-class superstar and club legend, the Manchester United manager chose a take things a bit more cool.