Ruben Amorim confirms Manchester United interest but no decision made yet

Ruben Amorim addressed speculation linking him to Manchester United, confirming that no deal was finalized despite Sporting's announcement that the Premier League club was prepared to meet his €10 million ($10.79 million) release clause.

In Short

• Amorim confirms Manchester United's interest but no agreement yet
• United ready to pay Amorim's €10 million release clause
• Amorim prioritises Sporting, focusing on the next fixture

Sporting CP manager Rºben Amorim addressed speculation over his potential move to Manchester United, confirming the Premier League club's interest while clarifying that no final agreement has been made. Sporting CP announced on Tuesday that United is prepared to pay Amorim's €10 million release clause, fuelling rumours of a swift transition following Erik ten Hag's dismissal.

United, currently struggling in 14th place in the Premier League, recently parted ways with Ten Hag, hoping to stabilize the club with Amorim potentially taking over in time for Sunday's fixture against Chelsea. However, the 39-year-old manager refrained from committing to the switch. "I have nothing to say now," Amorim told reporters after Sporting's 3-1 win over Nacional in the Portuguese League Cup quarterfinals. "Anything I say will only create more noise. We're analyzing here. For now, there's nothing to talk about."

Despite repeated questions from journalists, Amorim maintained his focus on Sporting's upcoming league fixture against Estrela da Amadora, asserting his loyalty to the club. He underscored that the decision remains his, stating, "There is an intention on the part of United, which is in talks with Sporting, but it will always be my decision."

Manchester United has not issued any public statements on the matter, keeping their dealings confidential as they attempt to bring in Amorim, known for his high-energy, counter-attacking style. Sporting made a formal disclosure to the Portuguese Securities Market Commission regarding United's interest, further intensifying the spotlight on the manager's future.

Amorim's managerial résumé has placed him on the radar of multiple top-tier clubs. He led Sporting to its first Primeira Liga title in 19 years in 2021 and secured another title last season, earning praise from players like Bruno Fernandes, who recently lauded Amorim's coaching prowess. "Since Mr. Amorim arrived at Sporting, it has been one of the teams to play the best football," Fernandes said in a recent press conference. "Sporting went 20 years without winning championships, and Amorim arrived and has already won two."

United's swift pursuit comes as the club seeks a transformative leader amid mounting scrutiny and competitive pressures. Amorim's coaching internship with José Mourinho at United in 2018 could offer a familiar reference point, though taking on the permanent role would place him among the ranks of coaches attempting to restore United's former glory since Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement in 2013.

While the stakes are high, Amorim remains noncommittal for now. United's interim manager, Ruud van Nistelrooy, will lead the team for their League Cup clash against Leicester City on Wednesday, as the club waits for the Portuguese coach's fin