EPL: Ruben Amorim officially appointed as Manchester United boss

Manchester United have confirmed the appointment of Ruben Amorim as the club’s new head coach.

The Portuguese replaces Erik ten Hag, who was sacked on Monday, just a day after the Red Devil’s 2-1 defeat away to West Ham United in the English Premier League.

News of the appointment was made on Friday through a press release by the club’s communication department.

“Manchester United is delighted to announce the appointment of Ruben Amorim as Head Coach of the men’s first team, subject to work visa requirements,” read the statement.

“He will join until June 2027 with a club option of an additional year, once he has fulfilled his obligations to his current club. He will join Manchester United on Monday 11 November.”

Appointed the Sporting Lisbon head coach in 2020, Amorim guided the club to their first Primeira Liga title in 19 years, clinching the league twice during his four-year stay.

Among the youngest and most promising soccer managers in Europe, it’s easy to see why United triggered Amorim’s release clause of €10m to secure his services.

Although complications arose in the week over Amorim’s 30-day notice, Manchester United paid an additional €1m to prompt an early release of the 39-year-old tactician.

Under Amorim’s leadership, Sporting have a perfect record of nine wins in the Primeira Liga this season, scoring 30 goals whilst only conceding two.

Sporting are also eighth out of a possible 36 in the Champions League’s new format, after securing two wins and a draw.

Despite his success in Portugal, the Premier League is more rigorous and competitive, while Manchester United comes with an added layer of unwanted scrutiny.

Meanwhile, Manchester United welcome Chelsea to Old Trafford this Sunday, with top soccer betting sites paying $2.56 for the Blues to defeat their hosts ($2.58).

Although Ruud van Nistelrooy continues to lead United in an acting capacity, the Dutchman hopes to see out his current contract.

“I’m here as an assistant to help the club forward, and I’m still very motivated to do so in any capacity,” said Ruud.

“As an assistant and now as an interim manager, and after that I go back to my assistant contract that I have here for this season and next.”

It’s still unclear whether van Nistelrooy will be part of Amorim’s backroom staff.

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