Manchester United are in discussions to appoint Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim as Erik ten Hag’s successor, following the Dutchman’s dismissal on Monday after a disappointing season start.
Amorim, 39, has built a strong reputation in Portugal, leading Sporting to two league titles, including their first in 19 years, since taking charge in 2020.
While the specifics of the negotiations with Amorim remain unclear, he is emerging as the top candidate for the Old Trafford role. It is also uncertain if United is considering other candidates.
During a Monday press conference, Amorim anticipated questions regarding the Manchester United job but declined to comment further.
Meanwhile, United has named Ten Hag’s assistant Ruud van Nistelrooy as interim manager.
The club has not specified the length of Van Nistelrooy’s tenure or confirmed if he will lead the team in Wednesday’s Carabao Cup match against Leicester.
United has also ruled out a pre-match press conference by Van Nistelrooy, with Ten Hag having previously addressed the EFL Cup tie after Sunday’s defeat to West Ham.
Though United has acknowledged potential financial implications related to compensating Ten Hag and a new coach, sources familiar with the club’s finances indicate that this should not pose a significant barrier.
Sporting CP had previously paid Braga €10 million (£8.3 million) for Amorim’s services in 2020.
Amorim – whose contract runs until June 2026 – held talks with West Ham in April but there was no agreement and the Portuguese subsequently apologised to Sporting for holding discussions behind the club’s back.
Sunday’s 2-1 defeat at West Ham left Manchester United 14th in the Premier League with three wins from their opening nine matches.
They are also 21st of 36 teams in the Europa League table, having drawn their three opening fixtures.