Following Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, Manchester United are reportedly engaging in discussions with Ruben Amorim to become their next manager. Amorim, who is 39 years old, has gained significant recognition for his managerial abilities, particularly after a successful four-year spell with Sporting CP. During his tenure, he revitalized the Portuguese club, guiding them to two Primeira Liga championships, including their first league title in nearly two decades. This achievement has not only bolstered his reputation but also put him firmly on the radar of top European clubs, with United now seeming to be his next possible challenge.
Amorim’s journey with Sporting CP began in March 2020, when he joined from Braga for a substantial €10 million fee, a move that sparked widespread debate at the time. However, he wasted no time in proving his worth, implementing an energetic, modern style of play that brought immediate success. Known for his preference for a 3-4-3 formation, Amorim’s system emphasizes dynamic wing-backs, a high defensive line, and relentless pressing, aiming to unsettle opponents and dominate possession. Such an approach has drawn attention from United, who believe Amorim’s philosophy could align with their aspirations in the Premier League.
United have already made squad changes that could complement Amorim’s style. Players like Manuel Ugarte, formerly under Amorim at Sporting, bring vital experience and skill to a high-press, energetic system. Ugarte’s record in tackles per 90 minutes last season placed him among the top players across Europe, a testament to his defensive capabilities and work rate. His familiarity with Amorim’s tactics could be pivotal, potentially allowing a smooth transition as United adapt to this new system under Amorim’s leadership.
Should Amorim assume the role, United fans could expect to see the team lined up in his signature 3-4-3 formation. This could lead to a strong defensive setup featuring players like Leny Yoro and Luke Shaw, whose return to fitness could see him slot into a back-five framework that balances both resilience and flexibility. In midfield, Ugarte could pair with Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo, forming a partnership that combines defensive solidity with creativity. This midfield trio could act as the team’s engine, setting the tempo and initiating pressing actions high up the pitch.
In the forward line, the combination of Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford, and Rasmus Hojlund has the potential to bring speed, agility, and goal-scoring threat. However, there is speculation that Amorim may look to bolster the squad with familiar faces from Sporting, such as Viktor Gyokeres, who has shown exceptional goal-scoring ability under Amorim’s guidance. Gyokeres could offer the finishing touch United have been missing, as their goal output has fallen below expectations this season.
Transfer talks are already pointing to potential defensive reinforcements. Sporting’s center-back Goncalo Inacio, a young yet highly-rated defender, could be a target, along with former United full-back Alvaro Carreras, whose familiarity with the club could add an experienced option on the flanks. Amorim’s eye for defensive organization may see him keen to bring in these players to establish a stronger foundation at the back. With Gyokeres upfront to sharpen United’s attack, and Inacio and Carreras potentially solidifying the defense, Amorim’s appointment could bring a blend of familiar talent and fresh tactical ideas.
If the club finalizes the deal, Ruben Amorim’s arrival could mark the beginning of a transformative era at Old Trafford, with a clear emphasis on an aggressive, possession-based style. United’s existing talent, combined with potential new arrivals from Sporting, may lead to an invigorated squad ready to compete at the highest level under a manager determined to make his mark in the Premier League.