Sporting CP coach Amorim acknowledged that the two clubs are in discussions but refrained from confirming his desire to join Manchester United.
Football coach Ruben Amorim has dismissed speculation regarding a potential deal with Manchester United, which could see him become the next manager of the Premier League club. This follows Sporting CP’s announcement that United is willing to pay his $10.79 million release clause for a move to the UK.
On Tuesday, Amorim stated, ‘Nothing is decided yet,’ as United has made him their top choice to succeed the recently sacked Erik ten Hag. Sporting started the Lisbon stock exchange confirming United’s readiness to meet his release clause.
After Sporting’s League Cup victory over Nacional, Amorim was cautious when asked if it was his final match with the Portuguese club. ‘Nobody knows whether this was my farewell match. Nothing is decided yet,’ he told sports daily A Bola.
British media reports suggest that United would prefer Amorim to be in place for their upcoming league game against Chelsea at Old Trafford on Sunday, but he refrained from confirming any developments. ‘I have nothing to say right now; we’re analyzing the situation. Anything I say will only create more noise,’ he remarked.
Amorim emphasized, ‘There’s nothing to talk about. The club’s statement is clear; everyone is aware of it. For the rest, we do not know the exact details. We will see.
‘There is an intention on United’s part to engage with Sporting, but the final decision will always be mine. Discussing it now only adds noise to the club and the current situation.
‘I can’t promise anything. What I do know is that I’ll be at training tomorrow, preparing for the league game on Friday.’
Despite Amorim’s efforts to redirect questions back to the game, reporters continued to press him about United. Earlier, Sporting had informed the Portuguese Securities Market Commission of Manchester United’s interest.
‘Manchester United FC expressed interest in hiring coach Ruben Amorim, with Sporting’s board of directors referencing the terms set out in the employment contract between the club and the coach, particularly the termination clause for the amount of €10,000,000 ($10.79 million),’
Stated the Lisbon-based club.
Portuguese media speculate that the match against Nacional could be Amorim’s last in charge, and he is reportedly negotiating with United regarding his staff and salary.
Several clubs, including Liverpool, where he was considered a candidate to replace Jurgen Klopp last season, although the club ultimately opted for Arne Slot, have pursued Amorim. He also held discussions with West Ham United about replacing David Moyes before deciding to remain in Lisbon.