Manchester United Finalizes Agreement to Appoint Ruben Amorim

TDT | Manama

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United Secures Amorim Amidst Sporting’s Busy Schedule

Manchester United has officially reached an agreement with Sporting Lisbon to hire Ruben Amorim as their new head coach. The 39-year-old manager will remain with Sporting for their next three fixtures, including a CL match against Manchester City on November 5. Amorim is expected to take charge of United for his first match away at Ipswich Town on November 24, providing a smooth transition for both clubs.

Sporting's management was keen to retain Amorim during this pivotal stretch, and United respected the request, acknowledging his significant contributions to the club over the past four years. The negotiation included a €10 million (£8.4 million, $10.9 million) release clause, but United has agreed to pay an additional €1 million to facilitate an earlier start during the upcoming international break. Reports indicate that Sporting was initially seeking an extra €5 million for an immediate release.

Key Details of the Transition

While the agreement is in place, Sporting officials have indicated that discussions around additional compensation are ongoing. This includes provisions for the departure of key staff members identified by Amorim, such as first-team coaches Emanuel Ferro and Adelio Candido, goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital, and sports scientist Paulo Barreira.

Amorim’s departure is not merely contractual; it is emotional, given the deep bond he has forged with the Sporting fanbase through two league titles. United, recognizing the importance of a respectful exit, has been flexible with the transition, allowing Ruud van Nistelrooy to assume interim management duties during this interim period.

Van Nistelrooy’s Interim Role

Van Nistelrooy is set to oversee four matches during this transition, including fixtures against Chelsea in the Premier League and Leicester City in the Carabao Cup. His time as interim manager offers a chance to enhance his resume while awaiting a more permanent position, with his future at the club hanging in the balance.

Amorim’s Proven Track Record

Ruben Amorim arrives at Manchester United with an impressive resume, having led Sporting to their first league title in 19 years during the 2021-22 season and successfully defending that title last year. Currently, Sporting sits atop the Primeira Liga, boasting an unbeaten record this season.

Amorim’s tactical approach, primarily utilizing a 3-4-3 formation, emphasizes high possession and flexible attacking movements, underpinned by a strong defensive setup. 

Focus on Youth and Development

A hallmark of Amorim’s tenure at Sporting has been his commitment to nurturing young talent. He has seamlessly integrated players like Goncalo Inacio, Matheus Nunes, and Nuno Mendes into the first team, all of whom have enhanced their value under his guidance. Notably, while Bruno Fernandes transferred to United just before Amorim’s appointment, several key players have since been developed and sold for significant fees, including Manuel Ugarte and Joao Palhinha.

Amorim’s credentials as a title-winning manager, his focus on developing young talent, and his ability to improve player performance make him a highly coveted asset in European football. His imminent arrival at Manchester United signifies a fresh chapter for the club, filled with promise and potential.