[By Abigail Philip David]
Manchester United has reportedly reached an agreement with Sporting Lisbon to appoint 39-year-old Ruben Amorim as the club’s new manager, with his tenure expected to begin after the November international break.
This announcement follows United’s recent decision to part ways with Erik ten Hag, who had led the team for two and a half years.
According to *The Athletic*, United’s top officials, including chief executive Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth, traveled to Lisbon to finalize the deal. Under the terms, Amorim will remain with Sporting to oversee three important matches, including a high-stakes game against Manchester City, before assuming his new role at Old Trafford.
To expedite the transition, United has agreed to pay an additional €1 million and cover around €5 million to bring key members of Amorim’s staff, including coaches Emanuel Ferro, Adelio Candido, and Carlos Fernandes, to Manchester.
Amorim has expressed a desire for a smooth departure from Sporting, where he has forged a strong bond with the fans, leading the team to two league titles—their first in nearly 20 years. United accepted Sporting’s conditions, recognizing Amorim’s dedication to the club he has managed for four years.
As part of the agreement, Amorim will oversee Sporting’s matches against Manchester City on Tuesday and Braga on November 10, and is expected to take charge of United for the first time in their away fixture against Ipswich Town on November 24.
Currently, Ruud van Nistelrooy is serving as United’s interim manager, following Ten Hag’s departure, and has already led the team to a victory over Leicester City in the Carabao Cup. He will continue to manage the squad for upcoming Premier League and Europa League matches until Amorim’s arrival.
Amorim, known for his tactical flexibility and 3-4-3 formation that emphasizes high possession and defensive stability, has led Sporting to success both offensively and defensively, with the team currently performing strongly in the Primeira Liga. His adaptable style incorporates both a 3-4-3 and a more attacking 3-4-2-1 approach, focusing on patient buildup and a strong defensive foundation. The recent addition of striker Viktor Gyokeres has also brought a more direct, transitional style to Sporting’s attack.
A champion of youth development, Amorim has promoted several young talents, including Goncalo Inacio and Matheus Nunes, and developed players such as Pedro Porro and Manuel Ugarte, who later secured moves to major European clubs. His dedication to nurturing young players has generated excitement among United fans.
Amorim’s first home fixture as United’s head coach will be against Everton in December.
