'Most exciting young coach in Europe' - why Manchester United moved for Ruben Amorim

On the day of Erik ten Hag's sacking, a Manchester United delegation was packing its bags for a flight to Lisbon.

United officials travelled to the Portuguese capital on Monday after Ten Hag was sent packing. The club were aware of Ruben Amorim's €10million release clause and notice period. He will officially become United manager on Monday November 11.

The United delegation spoke with Sporting officials and Amorim agreed in principle to become Ten Hag's permanent successor on Monday night. A deal was agreed for Amorim's services on Wednesday.

Sporting dug their heels in to retain Amorim for four more games in charge, including next week's Champions League visit of Manchester City.. Sporting are top of the Primeira Liga with a 100 per cent record.

READ MORE: Every word of Van Nistelrooy's first press conference

READ MORE: What Van Nistelrooy and Ten Hag discussed after sacking

United have managed to secure Amorim's services three weeks earlier than his notice period stipulated and he will take charge of the club for the first time away to Ipswich Town on November 24 Ruud van Nistelrooy's interim stint will extend to four games, with Chelsea, PAOK and Leicester City due to visit Old Trafford in the Premier League and Europa League over the next 10 days.

United insist Amorim was the only coach they spoke to and that he was their first choice. There was concern among the club hierarchy they would be restricted to managerial free agents but Amorim's release clause was considered especially reasonable for a coach who has attracted interest from Liverpool and Manchester City.

Thomas Tuchel was sounded out by United while Ten Hag was still in charge last month before the Football Association swiftly concluded negotiations to install him as the new England coach. Club sources believe Amorim is "the most exciting young coach in European football" and a proven winner, having guided Sporting to two Primeira Liga titles.

Amorim's style of play, personality, development of young players and huge energy were all characteristics which convinced United he was a suitable choice. They also expect him to work well under the club's new sporting structure as the club strives to transform their football operations.

United acknowledge Amorim, 39, is a notably different profile of head coach to their past appointments and that he will bring a new style and approach. Amorim favours a 3-4-3 formation. The club intend to confirm the backroom staff appointments in due course.