Why Man Utd employed ‘Europe’s most fun coach’ Ruben Amorim and the way deal was executed early

On Nov 1, 2024

Manchester United have appointed Ruben Amorim as their new boss.

Amorim, 39, was ear-marked as one of the most exciting young managers in Europe – and the Red Devils wasted little time in swooping in for the Portuguese boss after Erik ten Hag was axed following a 2-1 defeat to West Ham on Sunday (October 27).

Sources told Daily Star Sport United sent a delegation to Lisbon on Monday – the same day Ten Hag was relieved of his duties. The Red Devils were aware of his release clause and notice period, and considered them into their planning.

United execs respected that it was mid-season, and Sporting would be keen to hold onto Amorim to the terms of his release clause, but negotiations have led to Amorim being able to join the team three weeks before he otherwise could have joined.

Daily Star Sport understands Amorim was the only coach United spoke to in the process after he was identified as their No.1 priority.

ESTORIL, PORTUGAL - MAY 11: Sporting Head Coach Rúben Amorim thanks supporters for standing during the Liga Portugal Bwin match between GD Estoril and Sporting CP at Estadio Antonio Coimbra da Mota on May 11, 2024 in Estoril, Portugal. (Photo by Pedro Loureiro/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images) — Ruben Amorim is one of the most exciting coaches in Europe
(Image: Pedro Loureiro/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)

Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United celebrates scoring a goal to make it 5-2
Manchester United v Leicester City, EFL Carabao Cup, Fourth Round, Football, Old Trafford, Manchester, UK — Man Utd acted quickly to bring him to Old Trafford
(Image: Matt West/REX/Shutterstock)

Club insiders are confident Amorim is a proven winner and his style of play, personality and development of young players fall in line with the identify of United. And they believe he has earned the title of the most exciting young coach in European football.

A statement from the Red Devils read: “Manchester United is delighted to announce the appointment of Rúben Amorim as Head Coach of the men’s first team, subject to work visa requirements.

“He has signed a contract until June 2027 with a club option of an additional year. He will join Manchester United on Monday 11 November once he has fulfilled his obligations with Sporting CP.

Ruben Amorim has Sporting top of the league

Sir Jim Ratcliffe acted quickly to bring him to Old Trafford
(Image: PA)

“Rúben is one of the most exciting and highly rated young coaches in European football. Highly decorated as both a player and coach, his titles include winning the Primeira Liga twice in Portugal with Sporting CP, the first of which was the club’s first title in 19 years.

“Ruud van Nistelrooy will continue to take charge of the team until Rúben joins.”

United will welcome Amorim to Carrington on November 11, but he won’t take charge of his first Red Devils game until November 24 against Ipswich.