Ruben Amorim is set to be introduced as Manchester United’s new manager after finalising an agreement with Sporting Lisbon.
The negotiations were reportedly completed last night, with United agreeing to pay his €10 million release clause, along with compensation for three coaching staff Amorim intends to bring along.
The 39-year-old former Portugal international has quickly risen as one of Europe’s most sought-after managers, leading Sporting to two Primeira Liga titles in the past three years.
United executives now see Amorim as the ideal replacement for Erik ten Hag, who was sacked on Monday after a disappointing season start.
Although Liverpool, Chelsea, and West Ham had previously considered him, they ultimately decided against his appointment. Since then, Amorim has continued to enhance his reputation, earning high praise from industry insiders.
This has strengthened the confidence of United stakeholders, including Sir Jim Ratcliffe, in Amorim’s potential to revive the team after a challenging start to the season.
Sources indicate that Amorim’s move to United is a ‘done deal’, with the Portuguese manager expected to make his debut next month after the international break.
According to the agreement, Amorim will remain with Sporting for three more games, including upcoming matches against Manchester City on Tuesday and Braga on November 10, before making his United debut on November 24 against Ipswich Town.
Sporting was keen to retain Amorim for this critical stretch, and United accepted these conditions, realising his significance at the club and his wish for a smooth transition mid-season.
While his contract includes a €10 million release clause, United has agreed to pay an extra €1 million to allow him to join sooner, during the international break, although Sporting initially sought an additional €5 million for immediate release.
Negotiations around compensation for key staff members Amorim wants to bring—Emanuel Ferro, Adelio Candido, Carlos Fernandes, goalkeeping coach Jorge Vital, and sports scientist Paulo Barreira—are still in discussion.
Amorim seeks a smooth and respectful departure from Sporting, where he has fostered a strong connection with fans over four years. United has honoured this wish, mindful of the season’s timing and Ruud van Nistelrooy’s readiness to step in as interim manager.
Van Nistelrooy, who led United to a 5-2 Carabao Cup victory over Leicester City on Wednesday, securing a quarter-final spot against Tottenham, will continue in his interim role until Amorim’s arrival.
He will manage a total of four games, covering both Carabao Cup and Premier League fixtures. Open to any future role under Amorim, he views this interim stint as a valuable opportunity to further develop his managerial credentials.
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