Exclusive: Man United hold talks with Ruben Amorim – deal could be done soon
Man United have spoken to Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim in the last few days about taking over from Erik ten Hag, sources have told Football Insider.
Following a 2-1 defeat against West Ham at the London Stadium, United officially announced that the manager has “left his role as men’s first-team manager”.
United also confirmed that Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge as the interim head coach while their search for a new full-time boss is ongoing.
Ten Hag had faced growing pressure on his position at Old Trafford as his side have now won just one of their last eight games and have gone without a win in five away fixtures.
The board have already begun assessing their options for potential replacements, with Amorim, 39, emerging as a top candidate for the role.
The Portuguese boss had been linked with the vacant positions at both West Ham and Chelsea during the summer, but ultimately made the call to remain at Sporting.
Now, with speculation intensifying over a move to Old Trafford, discussions have already taken place regarding the possibility of his appointment.
Sources say the board were keen to have Ten Hag’s replacement lined up before they make the final call, with talks taking place in the last week.
Man United eye Ruben Amorim to replace Erik ten Hag
Amorim has become one of the most highly-regarded managers in Europe thanks to his time at Sporting, with his side having won all nine of their league games so far this season.
This comes after he led them to lift last season’s league title, putting a huge ten-point gap between his side and rivals Benfica in the process.
Last season’s title win was the first time Sporting have topped the Portuguese Primeira Liga since 2021 as they had slipped as low as fourth before he led their revival.
Meanwhile, in Manchester, former United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Ten Hag was one defeat away from the sack.
Now, with a decision having been made while the club continue to assess their options, there is a feeling his replacement will have to be found quickly.
Amorim is the latest boss to have been linked with the role but remains just one of several options in line to take over at Old Trafford.
In other news, Antony could agree ‘loan-to-buy move before January’ – Insider.
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