Manchester United are reportedly in discussions with Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag, who was relieved of his duties after a disappointing start to the season. United’s struggles left them in 14th place in the Premier League, with only one win in their last eight games across all competitions. Former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has been named interim manager as the club searches for a permanent replacement.
Despite heavy spending this season, including new signings like Joshua Zirkzee and Matthijs de Ligt, United have failed to show improvement. The loss to West Ham over the weekend was the final straw, marking their fourth defeat in nine league games. Ten Hag, who joined the club in May 2022, was initially seen as a promising choice after leading United to their first silverware in six years by winning the 2023 League Cup and reaching the FA Cup final. However, his second season has been marred by injuries, underwhelming performances, and an inability to establish a consistent playing style.
According to multiple reports, Amorim is considered one of Europe’s most promising young coaches, with United allegedly prepared to meet his release clause. The 39-year-old Portuguese coach has gained attention for his work at Sporting Lisbon and was previously linked to the Liverpool job. However, the position was ultimately filled by Dutch coach Arne Slot following Jurgen Klopp’s departure earlier this year. United’s owners are now reportedly keen on Amorim as they aim to implement a new sporting structure under co-owner Jim Ratcliffe’s oversight.
The mounting pressure on Ten Hag, who had been backed by Ratcliffe despite last season’s eighth-place finish, was exacerbated by United’s poor performance and low league standing this season. Football pundits, including Gary Neville and Rio Ferdinand, have highlighted the poor impact of United’s recent signings, with Neville calling United’s current position “unacceptable.” He remarked, “You can’t be in 14th after nine or 10 games with the level of spending that’s occurred.”
Since the departure of legendary manager Alex Ferguson in 2013, United have cycled through five permanent managers without a genuine challenge for the Premier League title. Ten Hag’s tenure is seen as just one part of United’s ongoing struggle to reclaim their former dominance. United fans and former players alike now wait to see if Amorim could finally bring stability and success back to Old Trafford.
