Manchester United have successfully negotiated a deal with Sporting Lisbon for the appointment of Ruben Amorim as their new head coach. The agreement includes Amorim remaining with Sporting for their upcoming three games, which includes a crucial match against Manchester City on Tuesday and Braga on November 10. This means that Amorim will make his debut as United’s head coach in their away game against Ipswich Town on November 24.
Sporting was adamant about retaining Amorim for this critical period, and United agreed to these terms out of respect for the 39-year-old’s position at the Portuguese club and his desire for a smooth transition mid-season. Amorim has a release clause of €10 million in his contract, with an additional 30-day notice period. United is willing to pay an extra €1 million to expedite Amorim’s release so he can start working during the international break. Sporting initially demanded an extra €5 million for an immediate release.
The negotiations are still ongoing, with discussions regarding further compensation for the departure of the staff members Amorim has selected to join him at United. These include first-team coaches Emanuel Ferro, Adelio Candido, and Carlos Fernandes, as well as goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital and sports scientist Paulo Barreira. United’s chief executive, Omar Berrada, has been leading the discussions in Lisbon.
Amorim is keen on a smooth departure from Sporting, where he has spent the last four years and led the team to two league title wins. United has shown willingness to accommodate his wishes, especially since the season is already in progress and Ruud van Nistelrooy can step in as an interim manager.
In a recent press conference before Sporting’s match against Estrela Amadora, Amorim refrained from providing details on when the official announcement would be made, stating that it is a negotiation between the two clubs. He expressed his focus on the upcoming game and the Champions League clash with Manchester City.
Van Nistelrooy will take charge of United for at least four games, including matches against Chelsea, PAOK, and Leicester. His long-term future at the club remains uncertain, but he has expressed willingness to work in any capacity that Amorim sees fit.
The pursuit of Amorim comes after the departure of Erik ten Hag as manager earlier in the week. Amorim’s successful track record at Sporting, his tactical acumen, and ability to develop young talent make him a highly sought-after manager in Europe.
In terms of tactics, Amorim is known for his preferred 3-4-3 formation, which emphasizes high possession, flexible attacking strategies, and a solid defensive structure. He has demonstrated a knack for maximizing the potential of his players and adapting his style to suit their strengths.
Amorim’s success in bringing young talent into the first team and improving individual player performance has garnered attention from top clubs across Europe. With his proven track record of winning titles and developing players, Amorim is poised to make a significant impact at Manchester United.
The appointment of Amorim signals a new era for Manchester United, with fans eagerly anticipating his arrival and the potential for success under his leadership.
