Rúben Amorim: The Portuguese Coach Leading the Race for Man Utd Job—Who Is He?

On Monday, October 28, Manchester United parted ways with manager Erik ten Hag following a disappointing start to the season, which saw the team earn only 11 points in nine matches. The tipping point came after their defeat to West Ham United on Sunday. For now, former player Ruud van Nistelrooy will step in as interim manager, but Sporting Lisbon’s Rúben Amorim has emerged as the frontrunner for the permanent position.

 

Who is Rúben Amorim?

Rúben Amorim, currently head coach of Sporting Lisbon, has prior ties to Manchester United, having completed his managerial internship at Old Trafford during José Mourinho’s tenure. A former player for Benfica, the 39-year-old Amorim spent much of his playing career in Portugal before shifting to management in 2018. Internationally, he represented Portugal, earning 14 caps and competing in the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups.

Since joining Sporting Lisbon in 2020, Amorim has led the club to significant success, securing two Primeira Liga titles in 2020-21 and 2023-24. Under his guidance, Sporting has started the 2024-25 season in top form, winning all nine of their league games, scoring 30 goals, and allowing only two, putting them three points clear of Porto at the top of the table.

In the Champions League, Sporting currently ranks eighth under the new format, with two wins and one draw, surpassing top clubs like Arsenal, Barcelona, and Real Madrid.

 

Amorim’s Potential Move to Manchester United

While other candidates are being considered, Amorim is at the top of Manchester United’s shortlist if he expresses interest. United will need to seek approval from Sporting Lisbon to hold formal talks with Amorim, who remains under contract. Should Amorim agree, United is expected to act quickly; if not, Van Nistelrooy will continue in the role temporarily.