Ruben Amorim confirms Manchester United’s interest, but no decision has been made

Sporting manager Ruben Amorim has addressed rumors of his potential move to Manchester United, confirming the Premier League club’s interest but clarifying that a final agreement has not yet been reached. Sporting announced on Tuesday that United were willing to pay Amorim a €10 million release clause, fueling rumors of a quick move following the sacking of Erik ten Hag.

United, who currently sit 14th in the Premier League, recently parted ways with Ten Hag as they look to stabilize the club, with Amorim potentially in place for Sunday’s clash with Chelsea. However, the 39-year-old coach refrained from making the move. “I have nothing to say right now,” Amorim told reporters after Sporting’s 3-1 win over Nacional in the Portuguese League Cup quarter-finals. “Anything I say will only create more noise. We analyze here. There’s nothing to talk about yet.”

Despite repeated questions from journalists, Amorim continued to pay attention to Sporting’s upcoming match against Estrela da Amador, declaring his loyalty to the club. He stressed that the decision was his, saying: “There is an intention on the part of United who are negotiating with Sporting, but it will always be my decision.”

Manchester United have made no public statements on the matter, keeping their deals confidential as they try to attract Amorim, known for his energetic counter-attacking style. Sporting made an official statement to the Portuguese Securities Market Commission over United’s interest, further increasing scrutiny over the manager’s future.

Amorim’s managerial resume has made him the target of many top-level clubs. He led Sporting to their first Premier League title in 19 years in 2021 and won another title last season, earning praise from the likes of Bruno Fernandes, who recently praised Amorim’s coaching skills. “Since Mr. Amorim arrived at Sporting, they have been one of the teams playing the best football,” Fernandes said at a recent press conference. “Sporting haven’t won a championship for 20 years, but Amorim came and already won two.”

United’s swift pursuit comes as the club seeks a transformative leader amid growing scrutiny and competitive pressure. Amorim’s coaching stint under Jose Mourinho at United in 2018 could be a familiar touch, although landing a permanent role would place him among the ranks of managers trying to restore United to their former glory following the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013.

Although the stakes are high, Amorim remains cagey for now. United caretaker manager Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team in the League Cup against Leicester City on Wednesday as the club awaits the Portuguese manager’s decision.