Manchester United have made Ruben Amorim their No.1 choice to replace the sacked Erik ten Hag.
Sporting CP boss Amorim has been sounded out about the job and is keen to make the move to Old Trafford. Ten Hag was dismissed in the wake of Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at West Ham, which left United languishing in 14th place in the Premier League table.
The Dutchman was summoned to a meeting at the club’s Carrington training base with CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth, who told him he was being axed. Ten Hag flew back to Holland on a private jet, with a compensation deal worth around £7m secured.
Ruud Van Nistelrooy has taken charge on a caretaker basis ahead of Wednesday’s League Cup clash with Leicester at Old Trafford. It is not known if Van Nistelrooy wants to be considered, while United’s hierarchy fear he could be too inexperienced to have the job full time.
Others candidates on United’s shortlist include former England boss Gareth Southgate, Brentford manager Thomas Frank and ex-Barcelona manager Xavi. But Amorim is said to be the front runner, and could be appointed within the next two weeks.
(Image: Eamonn and James Clarke)
Amorim, 39, has emerged as one of the best young coaches in Europe. He has won five trophies since taking charge in 2020, including two Portuguese titles and the club’s first one in almost two decades.
United’s hierarchy have kept close tabs on Amorim’s development, and admire his tactics, work ethic and style of play. Frank, meanwhile, refused to rule himself out of the running and said: “I’ve said many, many times, I’m very happy here.
“I think it’s one of the best clubs in the world. What happens in the future, who knows? I can see myself here for a long, long time. I’ve also said that maybe if something comes up, an opportunity I’d like to try, okay, let’s see.”
(Image: PA)
Ten Hag was dismissed after 30 months in charge, having paid the price for United’s shambolic start to the season. The fallen giants have won one of their last eight games in all competitions, and just three league matches.
Ten Hag has spent more than £600m on new signings since taking charge, and failed to challenge for the title, despite winning two domestic cups. But Ten Hag believes he has been let down by a number of senior players during his time at United, including Marcus Rashford, Casemiro and Anthony.
United captain Bruno Fernandes took to social media to pay tribute to Ten Hag. The Portuguese said: “Thanks for everything boss. I appreciate the trust and the moments we share together, I wish you all the best in the future.
“Even knowing the last period hasn’t been great from all of us, I hope you fans can keep with you the good things the manager has done for our club.”