Ruben Amorim has finally revealed the two key reasons behind his decision to join Manchester United as their new manager.
In his first interview since replacing Erik ten Hag, the Portuguese coach opened up about his excitement to take on the challenge at Old Trafford and why he feels this is the right move at this stage of his career.
Amorim, 39, was appointed by Manchester United following a tumultuous start to the season, with the club sitting in 13th place in the Premier League after a series of disappointing performances. The Portuguese manager, who led Sporting Lisbon to two Primeira Liga titles, including ending the club’s near 20-year wait for a league title, is now tasked with reviving United’s season and steering them back towards the upper echelons of English football.
The decision to join Manchester United was not taken lightly, and Amorim explained that it came down to two fundamental factors: the connection he felt with the club and the opportunity to be part of its illustrious history. Speaking to MUTV, Amorim shared: “First of all, I think I felt a connection with the club. And when I say with the club, everybody knows Manchester United.” The sense of belonging was crucial for Amorim, as he emphasized how important it is for him to work with people he can relate to. “I feel the connection with the people in the club, and that is very important for me,” he added. “I want to work with people that I like and feel a connection with.”
The second reason, as Amorim explained, was Manchester United’s rich history and the current moment of challenge the club finds itself in. “The second point is the history of this club. And also the moment — I think all the people are hungry for success,” said Amorim. “I feel that this is the place that I want to be, because you can be part of something special, not just one more.” Amorim made it clear that he saw this as an opportunity to not only coach a world-renowned club but to contribute to a new era of success, with a clear goal to build something meaningful and lasting.
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Amorim’s arrival at Old Trafford is seen by many as a fresh start for a team that has been in disarray since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013. United has cycled through multiple managers with varying levels of success, and Amorim is the seventh permanent manager appointed by the club in that period. However, his pedigree, including an unbeaten start to the season with Sporting Lisbon and his tactical acumen, has garnered optimism among supporters who are hoping he can turn things around.
As Amorim prepares to take charge of his first match against Ipswich on November 24, his primary goal will be to restore balance and discipline to United’s game. His tactical approach, which has brought success in Portugal, is expected to focus on fluid attacking football and defensive solidity — something that has been sorely lacking at United this season. Amorim’s ability to instill a high-pressing, possession-based style will be key as he looks to raise the level of performance and competitiveness.
Amorim’s arrival also marks a new chapter for the club under the ownership of Sir Jim Ratcliffe, whose INEOS-backed team has assumed control of United’s sporting development. Ratcliffe, alongside CEO Omar Berrada, technical director Jason Wilcox, and sporting director Dan Ashworth, played a pivotal role in bringing Amorim to the club. The Portuguese manager acknowledged his rapport with the decision-makers, stating, “I felt a connection, and I felt we are in the same moment. We want to do something special in this special club.”
While the Glazer family still holds the majority stake in Manchester United, Ratcliffe’s £1.3 billion investment has ushered in significant changes to the club’s structure, including a renewed focus on its sporting future. Amorim’s appointment is a key part of this overhaul, and he has been tasked with not only reviving the team’s fortunes on the pitch but also fostering a winning culture that aligns with the club’s prestigious history.
Amorim’s comments about the Manchester United fanbase also stood out during his interview. He expressed admiration for the passionate supporters who, even in difficult times, continue to show unwavering loyalty. “When you see the games here, the interaction with the managers, with the players, even in difficult moments, I think it is a special club,” said Amorim. This connection with the fans will be crucial in the months ahead as Amorim seeks to unite the club under his leadership and restore the team to its former glory.
The new manager’s first real test will come on November 28, when Manchester United host Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League. This match will be an opportunity for Amorim to get his first taste of life at Old Trafford, and with just three days until they face Everton in the Premier League, he will quickly need to adapt to the high-pressure environment at one of the world’s biggest clubs.
In the months to come, Amorim will look to implement a tactical philosophy that is fluid, attacking, and disciplined. With players like Bruno Fernandes, Jadon Sancho, and Marcus Rashford at his disposal, Amorim will need to harness their potential and transform United into a more cohesive and efficient unit. The challenge is significant, but Amorim’s leadership and experience suggest that he is more than capable of rising to the occasion.
As Manchester United fans eagerly await Amorim’s debut, there is a sense of cautious optimism around the club. The road ahead may be challenging, but with a manager who is determined to bring success and an exciting brand of football to Old Trafford, United fans are hopeful that this could be the beginning of a new era.
