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      Ruben Amorim press conference in full: New Man Utd manager gives very honest answers including January transfer plans

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      RUBEN AMORIM held his first press conference since being confirmed as the new Manchester United manager on Friday night.Strangely, though, that came after his current side Sporting smashed Estrela Amadora 5-1.Ruben Amorim spoke to the media following Sporting’s 5-1 win over Estrela Amadora on Friday nightCredit: PAAmorim will take charge of two more matches as head coach in Portugal – against Manchester City in the Champions League on Tuesday and then his final game against former club Braga next Sunday.Then Amorim officially replaces Erik ten Hag as the new permanent Red Devils boss on November 11 after United stumped up £9.2million to get him out of his Sporting contract.And following Friday’s announcement of his imminent arrival at Old Trafford, Amorim was quizzed on his new job.That included giving a host of very honest answers, including his January transfer plans.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHere’s what Amorim had to say…ON THE ANNOUNCEMENT  “It was a very unusual week.“Obviously, since this whole situation came about I’ve felt different. I understand the anger of some fans and the disappointment. But that’s life. I was moved by the ovation and that’s how it is. “Even the other statement, when it came out, was on a match day. But clubs are now listed companies and they have to present all these things. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALS”There were two statements. But that’s how things are, there are things that we can’t control. “ON SPORTING FANS’ REACTION“I’m very grateful to the fans and to everything here. People think I wanted to leave straight away. Amorim confirmed by Man Utd but it’s a huge gamble and delay to start is bizarre”In the next home game, whether we win or lose by 15-0, I’ll be there to see what the fans want to give me. “I understand their anger, but we move on and time heals everything. It was the best period of my life.”ON DECIDING THIS WAS HIS FINAL SEASON AT SPORTING”At the beginning of the season, and the chairman is there to confirm it, I had a conversation with him and director of football Hugo Viana.”I said that, whatever happened, it was my last season at Sporting. The president can confirm that.”The season started and we started to have a very good season. United came along, paid the clause, above the clause, and the chairman defended his interests. “I never discussed anything with the chairman.”ON WANTING TO JOIN UNITED NEXT SUMMER”The only request I made to United was that it would be at the end of the season and they told me that wasn’t possible, that it was now or never or Manchester would go for another option. “So I had three days to decide on something that would radically change my life.”ON OTHER OFFERS”It’s not the first time that I’ve been requested and had my clause paid by another club. Nor the second. It’s very hard for me to leave.”I don’t want another team.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.”After Sporting I wanted that one, Manchester, and I want that context because that context allows me to do things my way and the club believes me that way.”There’s a time when I have to take a step forward in my career. That’s what happened. “It was harder for me than for any Sporting fan, believe me, but I had to do this.”ON DIFFICULT DECISION”There was no confusion at all. We have to safeguard everyone’s interests. “Far from playing the victim, I’m sorry. “I said I would stay for as many games as necessary. I didn’t say anything earlier because I couldn’t. That’s how the decision is. “The club knew that if I rejected it, I wouldn’t have it in six months. And I knew that in six months I would know that I wouldn’t be at Sporting. “The only club that I wanted and that moved me was United. It got to a point where I had to decide and I did. “Now I’m going home much more relaxed because I have explained. “People say ‘it’s about the money’, but there was another team that wanted to hire me before and they paid three times more than Manchester.”ON THREE MORE GAMES AT SPORTING AFTER ANNOUNCEMENT”I have to do what Sporting decides. I prefer it that way. “I don’t leave the players in the lurch. “Against Nacional, I felt they were more anxious because I felt they didn’t know what to expect. “I’m happy to stay and I won’t leave my players in the lurch.”ON SPEAKING TO ANY UNITED PLAYERS”As for United, I haven’t spoken to anyone, not even the players. “I’m totally focused.”On the 11th we will have the opportunity to talk about Manchester United. At the moment I am at Sporting. “I wanted to explain all this to Sporting fans. The focus now is on Sporting. Then we will talk about Manchester United.”I changed my mind several times. My concern is not to harm the Sporting team, we’ll see later. I’ll have that concern when I’m at United.”ON JANUARY SIGNINGS FROM SPORTING”Viktor Gyokeres costs 100m and it’s very difficult. “I’m not going to get any players from Sporting in January. “I will take my staff with me. That was always one of my conditions. I brought them with me since Casa Pia.”What does it mean to me? It was the best period of my life. Everyone at Sporting knows how important it was to me. READ MORE SUN STORIES”I understand the disappointment of the fans and that leaving in the middle of a season that could be historic.”But today is not the farewell, we still have two important games against City and Braga, to maintain our lead.”The Portuguese gaffer has two more games in Portugal before taking over at Old TraffordCredit: GettyAmorim promised not to poach Viktor Gyokeres in JanuaryCredit: Getty More

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      Ruben Amorim reveals he asked Man Utd NOT to join until end of season as he admits ‘I changed my mind several times’

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      RUBEN AMORIM has revealed he did not want to join Manchester United until the end of the season and admitted “I changed my mind several times”.The Red Devils announced Amorim, 39, as Erik ten Hag’s replacement on Friday morning and he will begin work at Old Trafford on November 11.Ruben Amorim coached Sporting Lisbon for the first time since being announced as Manchester United boss on Friday nightCredit: APHe has revealed he did not want to leave Sporting for Man Utd until the summerCredit: PAEx-Sporting and Man Utd winger Nani embraced Amorim ahead of the gameCredit: PAHe will remain in charge of Sporting for their games against Manchester City and Braga – and on Friday evening led the Portuguese champions to a 5-1 win over Estrela Amadora.The result moves Sporting six points clear at the top of the Primeira Liga.And Amorim confirmed after the game that he wanted to remain at Sporting until the end of the campaign but was told by Man Utd chiefs it was “now or never”.He said: “I asked United if it could be at the end of the season. It was what I wanted. United said no. It was now or never. So I had to make a decision.”This is exactly the context I wanted [United struggling] because I can do things my way.”Before he added: “I changed my mind several times.”My concern is not to harm the Sporting team, we’ll see later. I’ll have that concern when I’m at United.”Amorim also quashed talk he was joining Man Utd for the money.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe said: “Some people say it’s for money. It’s not.”Other clubs were prepared to pay 3 times more and I refused. This is the club [United] I wanted.”Amorim confirmed by Man Utd but it’s a huge gamble and delay to start is bizarreThe feeling around Amorim’s impending departure has divided the Sporting faithful.Outside the stadium, there was a banner which read: “Amorim, this is not your home anymore, thank you.”Other fans, though, took flags into the ground declaring their love for the coach who led the club to two titles.When Amorim’s name was first read out 30 minutes before kick-off, there were whistles and jeers followed by applause.I changed my mind several times.Ruben AmorimBut when the 39-year-old came out of the tunnel for the game, he received a standing ovation and applauded the fans.After the game, Amorim said: “Obviously, since this whole situation came about I’ve felt different.”I understand the anger of some fans and the disappointment. But that’s life. I was moved by the ovation and that’s how it is. “Even the other statement, when it came out, was on a match day.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.”But clubs are now listed companies and they have to present all these things. There were two statements. But that’s how things are, there are things that we can’t control. “I’m very grateful to the fans and to everything here. People think I wanted to leave straight away. In the next home game, whether we win or lose by 15-0, I’ll be there to see what the fans want to give me.”I understand their anger, but we move on and time heals everything. It was the best period of my life.”Amorim has won two league titles as Sporting manager – the first of which in 2021 ended a 19-year wait.His Man Utd contract runs until 2027, with the option of an extra year.The Red Devils paid £8.3million to trigger a release clause which allowed him to leave Sporting.His first game in charge of Man Utd comes away at Ipswich on November 24.United are understood to have paid an extra £900,000 to get him early rather than waiting a further three weeks.Amorim has been highly sought this year following his success with Sporting.READ MORE SUN STORIESPremier League rivals Liverpool were close to appointing the Lisbon gaffer before making the decision to bring in Arne Slot instead.While he also held talks with West Ham over the summer and had been rumoured to be on a list of candidates to take over from Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. More

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      Ruben Amorim begins Sporting farewell tour with 5-1 thumping of Estrela as Gyokeres shows why Man Utd must get him too

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      RUBEN AMORIM is heading to Old Trafford – and now Manchester United should sign Viktor Gyokeres.On the night Amorim started his three-game farewell tour at Sporting, former Coventry striker Gyokeres maintained his stunning record at the club with a hat-trick in the first 42 minutes before grabbing the fourth in the second half.New Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim led Sporting Lisbon to a dominant winCredit: PASporting star Viktor Gyokeres, who’s been linked with a reunion with Amorim at Man Utd, scored four past EstrelaCredit: PAGyokeres is one of the hottest strikers in EuropeCredit: ReutersThe red-hot forward, a £20million bargain from the Championship, has now scored 20 goals in 16 games this season on top of his 43 strikes in 50 matches last term.How United, the third lowest scorers in the Premier League, would love someone like the Swedish international.Gyokeres’ opener was well placed from an acute angle while the next two – the third being a penalty – were just raw power.His fourth in the 70th minute was a brilliant individual effort oozing with self confidence.Read More on Man UtdThat was before Maximiliano Araujo made it five for the hosts minutes before full-time.Yet United fans will hope their team do not defend under Amorim like the moment Sporting allowed Rodrigo Pinho to pull one back for 2-1 with an easy header.As you would expect, the announcement of Amorim’s departure has been mixed here.Outside the stadium, there was a banner which read: “Amorim, this is not your home anymore, thank you.”Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSNew Man Utd boss Amorim received applause but also some whistles and jeersCredit: PAOther fans, though, took flags into the ground declaring their love for the coach who led the club to two titles.When Amorim’s name was first read out 30 minutes before kick-off, there were whistles and jeers followed by applause.Watch Sporting Lisbon fan reveal how you’ve been pronouncing incoming Man Utd manger Ruben Amorim’s name all wrongBut when the 39-year-old came out of the tunnel for the game, he received a standing ovation and applauded the fans.Gyokeres said about Amorim and reports suggesting he could follow him to Manchester: “We’re sad to see him go. He did an extraordinary job here. We all wish him the best. “Follow him to Manchester? I don’t know, I’m here and I like it here. I don’t think about it.”Speaking after the game, Amorim ruled out a move for Gyokeres, or any Sporting player in January.And the incoming Red Devils chief even put his own very lofty price-tag on the Swedish striker.Amorim said: “Gyokeres costs 100 million (£84m) and it’s very difficult.”I’m not going to get any players from Sporting in January.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAnother player who enjoyed a good reception from the home supporters was former United winger Nani. He started his career at Sporting and the 37-year-old came on as a second half sub for Estrela.Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More

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      Box office Ruben Amorim already has mentor Mourinho’s aura and can now match his Chelsea feats by sorting Man Utd mess

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      RUBEN AMORIM smiled when Man United’s soon-to-be manager was asked what he likes about the Premier League and said: “Everything”.One of Europe’s most sought-after young coaches clearly wanted to expand on SunSport’s question here in Lisbon.Ruben Amorim revealed he likes ‘everything’ about the Premier LeagueCredit: EPAThe Portuguese coach already has mentor Jose Mourinho’s auraCredit: GettyBut he found himself in an utterly ridiculous situation before he left the media room at Sporting’s training ground.Amorim has promised he will be able to talk more freely about his impending job at Old Trafford after Friday’s Primeira Liga match at home to Estrela Amadora.Yet already, it is clear that this bloke is proper box office.And it is blindingly obvious he is relishing the chance of getting to grips with English football.READ MORE ON MAN UTDHis pre-match press conferences at the club’s training base — the Academia Cristiano Ronaldo — are such a terrific watch that on social media, there is a countdown clock for each of his media briefings.Entertaining press conferences? Does this remind you of another coach from Portugal?Indeed, Jose Mourinho was 41 when he announced he was the Special One after arriving at Chelsea. Amorim will head to Old Trafford even younger, aged 39.Most read in FootballBack in 2018, Amorim completed a performance internship under Mourinho at United as he got an early taste for life in ManchesterCredit: Twitter @Mourinho_XtraFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSMourinho’s birthday is on January 26, while Amorim’s is on January 27, but it looks as though he will follow in his fellow countryman’s footsteps in all sorts of ways.Even though Amorim has been unable to confirm he is heading to England, his two press conferences since the United news emerged have been fascinating.Sir Dave Brailsford appears to confirm Ruben Amorim deal to Man Utd fans as he leaves Old Trafford He has a twinkle in his eye, a good sense of humour, answers most questions in great detail and is obviously a terrific communicator in perfect English.He will certainly need those skills at Old Trafford, in both the way he deals with the playing staff, the board members and how he talks to the fans.Mourinho often used his press conferences — in fact he still does — with a clear plan of what he wants to say. He releases certain messages to his own players, opponents and the supporters. Amorim is the same.Erik ten Hag handled himself impressively throughout his time at Manchester United but he was lacking in charisma.Amorim has an aura, just like Mourinho.His career has been on an upwards trajectory so it has been an easy ride so far.There have certainly been no touchline histrionics like a certain other coach.It will also be fascinating how he deals with a run of poor results.Or when he is thrown a curveball, like a star player doing something stupid like going on a booze bender in Belfast.What is crazy, though, is Sporting president Frederico Varandas has insisted that Amorim stays for the next three games.Firstly, Friday’s local derby, then Tuesday’s home Champions League game with Manchester City and the trip to Braga on November 10.Amorim has already won two Primeira Liga titles with Sporting but faces a huge test against Pep Guardiola’s Man City in the Champions League next TuesdayCredit: GettyAmorim did not watch United’s win over Leicester on Wednesday because he was studying City in their Carabao Cup defeat at Spurs.And this City match really is rotten timing for Amorim.Despite boasting a 100 per cent record in the league, Sporting have also done well in the Champions League and are currently unbeaten in eighth place.But what happens if Sporting are taken apart by City?If Amorim engineers a famous win, then this will enhance his burgeoning reputation.But if Sporting are thrashed 5-0 and Erling Haaland scores another hat-trick, which is hardly out of the question, then United’s fans will be forced to welcome a manager who has just been out-smarted by Pep Guardiola. Not a good start.Ruben Amorim leaves Sporting on a highBy Charlie WyettRUBEN AMORIM would have preferred to leave Lisbon in a blaze of glory after winning a third Primeira Liga title.Yet football does not work like that. And in what was surely his final game before taking charge of Manchester United, Amorim prepared to say his goodbyes at a half-empty Estadio Jose Alvalade in a League Cup quarter-final against Nacional.Sporting won 3-1 thanks to  second-half goals by captain  Morten Hjulmand and Viktor Gyokeres, who scored two.Luis Esteves pulled back for Madeira-based Nacional.The stadium  will be a good deal more lively on Tuesday when Manchester City are here for  a Champions League match — although Amorim should by then have his feet firmly under his desk at Old Trafford.Liverpool and Aston Villa were both interested in Europe’s most sought-after coach. Even City could have been a possible destination post-Pep Guardiola.Yet the United job is one Amorim, 39,  could not turn  down — even if not everyone saw it that way at Sporting last night.There is clearly a huge split in the Portuguese club’s fan base over their coach leaving at this stage of the season with many believing he should have seen the job through.Yet Amorim, along with the three-man coaching team who are expected to follow him, leaves a club in a much better state than when he arrived here in 2020.Inside the stadium, there was applause — albeit muted — when his name was read out before the game along with the line-ups.And there did not appear to be any jeers when Amorim shuffled out from the tunnel awkwardly towards the dugout.So, while his departure is hard to take for some, none of the fans will forget his legacy.This is a club which is back as the dominant force in Portugal. Even this term, Sporting have won their first nine league games, scoring 30 goals and conceding just two.They are also eighth in the Champions League table, which is one hell of an effort.In contrast, Lisbon was not exactly hit by League Cup fever last night.Amorim made lots of changes, which saw Sporting’s star man Gyokeres, the former Coventry striker, start on the bench.There was, however, a first appearance in six weeks for former Tottenham winger Marcus Edwards. He is certainly one player who has been transformed by Amorim since arriving at the club from Vitoria in 2022 and will be sorry to see the coach leave.While he changed his team, Amorim stuck with his tried and trusted formation of a back three.It will certainly be something Manchester United’s fans will have to get used to over the  coming months.But looking at the Premier League table, none of them will be complaining about the change.Amorim often talks about stability and he was asked about the prospect of leaving his comfort zone at yesterday’s press conference.He was also quizzed about playing a part in his backroom staff enjoying life-changing pay rises by going to Old Trafford.As for a change in scenery, he said: “I think all coaches need that.“I don’t want to go into too much detail. Staff? We have very good conditions here.“Six years ago we were at Casa Pia and we were almost paid to work. It’s not about money.“When I said staff, staff involves a lot more people. Physiotherapists, wardrobe assistants. Not just the staff you’re referring to.“It’s hard to find these environments. That was one of the reasons I always wanted to stay here.“It was the people I work with. Stability. “I think that in everyone’s life there are times when we’re doing really well, but then we want something more, maybe to prove something more.”Amorim is about to get that chance. The problem is that inherits a dysfunctional United squad, and one without an A-lister.They could do with a player of the stature of the old Red Devils star who now has Sporting’s training ground named after him.READ MORE SUN STORIESAmorim, though, will be supremely confident he can sort out this mess at Old Trafford.If he is able to do so, this achievement would be every bit as impressive as what Mourinho managed at Chelsea.Mourinho won two Prem titles, an FA Cup and two League Cups in three seasons at ChelseaRuben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More

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      Jose Mourinho encouraged Ruben Amorim to take Man Utd job but Sporting boss wants to delay move due to Champions League

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      JOSE MOURINHO encouraged Ruben Amorim to take the jump from Sporting Lisbon to Manchester United.The Fenerbahce and former Red Devils boss has been a long time mentor to Amorim who had an internship at Mourinho’s High Performance Football Coaching course back in 2018.Jose Mourinho has backed his former trainee to take up Manchester United’s offerRuben Amorim looks set to replace sacked Erik ten Hag at Old TraffordThe pair have remained close and so he was the person the 39-year-old turned to when he became aware of United’s interest.SunSport also understands that Amorim wants to delay his move to United until after Sporting play Manchester City in the Champions League in Lisbon next Tuesday.His next match is at home on Friday to Estrela.It seems certain that interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy will therefore be in charge for not only the Leicester City Carabao Cup game but also the visit of Chelsea to Old Trafford on Sunday.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSUnited have agreed to pay Amorim’s £8.5million release clause.But the club want a further £4.1million for him to take his Sporting backroom staff with him.The sticking point, however, is that Sporting are looking to promote his assistant Carlos Fernandez to Amorim’s post despite him being only 29.While there are reports that Sporting will hold Amorim to a 30-day notice period the coach is convinced he will be at Old Trafford next week.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSHe has agreed to a two-and-a-half year contract with the option on the United’s side to extend that by a further year.Amorim had already been spoken to by United’s hierarchy before firing Erik ten Hag on Monday morning.Jose Mourinho jokes that he could become Millwall manager as he says ‘it’s just across the bridge from my house’The man himself immediately turned to Mourinho for advice.Despite his own dismissal by the club in his third season ‘The Special One’ encouraged him to make the move.Mourinho backed him when he was linked to the West Ham job.Mourinho said: “I think he has the conditions to be able to coach in any league and he has the conditions to be able to coach in any club.”Amorim for his part once referred to Mourinho as a ‘reference point’ and said of him:“Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More

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      Ruben Amorim’s press conference in full as he responds to questions about Man Utd job after Sporting match

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      RUBEN AMORIM was quizzed by reporters last night about reports linking him with the Manchester United job.The Portuguese tactician, 39, oversaw a 3-1 win for his Sporting CP side over Nacional in the Portuguese League Cup on Tuesday.Ruben Amorim has spoken at length about his links to the Man Utd jobCredit: GettyThe double Portuguese league winner has confirmed talks between Man Utd and Sporting CPCredit: GettyHowever, the main post-match topic was not the victory but rather the ongoing talks for him to replace Erik ten Hag as Man Utd’s new permanent manager after the Dutchman was sacked on Monday.The Red Devils have already indicated to Sporting they are willing to match Amorim’s £8.3million release clause – though they have now been told to cough up another £4m for his staff as well.Two-time league winner Amorim was asked about the decision and the progress of the move.Below you can see the Special One 2.0’s full press conference following the match last night:READ MORE IN FOOTBALLYour analysis of the match and Manchester United’s interest”There was a statement from the club and that is the only thing there is at the moment. “There is interest from Manchester United, there is the payment of a clause and then, when I have something more concrete, I will come here and take over the situation, because it is always my choice. “As long as you don’t have everything decided, for one side or the other, it’s not worth saying anything, it’s just going to create noise. “I just say that I will take on whatever I want to do, as I have always done. Most read in FootballBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS”Regarding the game, it was a strange game. A strange environment, there is no escaping it. We wanted to manage players. We played a good game, we lacked some joy and aggressiveness. “We scored another goal from a free-kick. A fair victory in a strange game, on a strange day. Now it’s time to think about Estrela da Amadora.Sporting fans give verdict on Ruben Amorim ahead of move to Man Utd”I would ask you to explain the issue of the €10 million clause for world-class clubs. Was it requested by you?”I’m not going to be talking about my contract, that’s between me and Sporting. I won’t be scrutinizing. “All clauses are on the coach’s side and Sporting’s. What I can say is that everything is in the statement.”Rúben, you said, very recently, that you were in an enviable position, with enormous stability. Isn’t all this strange for someone who has so much stability?”No, stability is not everything in life. We will have time to talk about it and I will explain what I have to explain. “But in relation to the words I said, none of my previous words prevent something from happening, at any time, in the world of football. “The only time I missed what I said was on the day of the plane. For the rest, I have maximum stability, I’m very happy here, I really like my staff. And one thing does not prevent the other. “So let’s see what happens in the future. But I did not fail to keep my word. There was a club that showed interest in the coach. I don’t control these things. “What I control is the decision that takes place from now on. And I will be here to tell you what I want to do and how it will be done. At this time, no decision has been made.”Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for.What is missing for this deal to be confirmed? Can you promise that you will be on the bench against Estrela da Amadora?”I can’t tell you anything more than this. There is an intention of the club. They are in talks with Sporting. Then, it will also be my decision.”But everything is time and I will explain everything that happens next. To be talking now is just creating noise and confusion even more for the situation. “There is a statement from the club, there is this situation, it will be resolved and I will assume what I have to assume. Today I can’t say more. I can’t promise anything. “Tomorrow, I’ll be in training. I’m going to prepare the game against Estrela da Amadora and that’s my focus.”Has Rúben Amorim already entered into negotiations with Manchester United? Have you talked to the squad?”There was no conversation. Before the set pieces, there was a ‘get the elephant out of the room’. Before the statement came out, I explained to the players what was going on. “At the moment nothing more is happening than that. Otherwise, there is nothing more to comment.”Didn’t the players ask you to stay? Can you give hope to the fans about not leaving? If you leave and return to Portugal, will you only coach Sporting?”If I haven’t even left Sporting yet… What I say is that, when everything is decided, I will come here to explain everything. At this moment, everything I can say to a Sporting fan… It is obvious that they are revolted about the situation. “Because they have a lot of affection for me. They believe a lot in my work. And love is very close… It’s not really hateful. But we know what football is like. I realize that. “People have to feel what they have to feel at this moment, I have nothing to say about it and I think it’s perfectly natural. What I am saying is that now I cannot say anything definitive or definitive. “And I’ll be able to say that. If I have the opportunity, and I should, I’m sure I will, I’ll explain here, step by step, why I decided one thing or another. I don’t want to give hope to anyone, nor stop giving hope. “What I say is that there was the club’s situation. The communication had to come out on this day that there is a game. The feeling in the stadium that Pedro had, I had. “I can see that my players, when they go to a lecture, are not the same. This is part of our life and we know what these situations are like. We have been through in the past. “What I say is that a club has appeared that wants to pay my clause. And I don’t control that. When the plane came, I might not have caught the plane. It’s true. “I thought the championship was already won. I couldn’t say that at the time, but now I do. In this situation, there are things that I do not control. “What I control is that I’m going to say and I’m going to explain everything here. And I’ll explain my decision. That’s it. But I need to have everything defined. Players do not need to make any requests. “I know what the players want. I know what the players feel. Now, it’s time to get ready to work.”Ruben Amorim leaves Sporting on a highBy Charlie WyettRUBEN AMORIM would have preferred to leave Lisbon in a blaze of glory after winning a third Primeira Liga title.Yet football does not work like that. And in what was surely his final game before taking charge of Manchester United, Amorim prepared to say his goodbyes at a half-empty Estadio Jose Alvalade in a League Cup quarter-final against Nacional.Sporting won 3-1 thanks to  second-half goals by captain  Morten Hjulmand and Viktor Gyokeres, who scored two.Luis Esteves pulled back for Madeira-based Nacional.The stadium  will be a good deal more lively on Tuesday when Manchester City are here for  a Champions League match — although Amorim should by then have his feet firmly under his desk at Old Trafford.Liverpool and Aston Villa were both interested in Europe’s most sought-after coach. Even City could have been a possible destination post-Pep Guardiola.Yet the United job is one Amorim, 39,  could not turn  down — even if not everyone saw it that way at Sporting last night.There is clearly a huge split in the Portuguese club’s fan base over their coach leaving at this stage of the season with many believing he should have seen the job through.Yet Amorim, along with the three-man coaching team who are expected to follow him, leaves a club in a much better state than when he arrived here in 2020.Inside the stadium, there was applause — albeit muted — when his name was read out before the game along with the line-ups.And there did not appear to be any jeers when Amorim shuffled out from the tunnel awkwardly towards the dugout.So, while his departure is hard to take for some, none of the fans will forget his legacy.This is a club which is back as the dominant force in Portugal. Even this term, Sporting have won their first nine league games, scoring 30 goals and conceding just two.They are also eighth in the Champions League table, which is one hell of an effort.In contrast, Lisbon was not exactly hit by League Cup fever last night.Amorim made lots of changes, which saw Sporting’s star man Gyokeres, the former Coventry striker, start on the bench.There was, however, a first appearance in six weeks for former Tottenham winger Marcus Edwards. He is certainly one player who has been transformed by Amorim since arriving at the club from Vitoria in 2022 and will be sorry to see the coach leave.While he changed his team, Amorim stuck with his tried and trusted formation of a back three.It will certainly be something Manchester United’s fans will have to get used to over the  coming months.But looking at the Premier League table, none of them will be complaining about the change.Didn’t Manchester United talk to you before paying the clause? Do you want to go or not? Can’t sign now for the end of the season?”This is my stuff. Whether I want to go or not, that’s the decision we’re talking about here. I believe that at the beginning of the season I had spoken to the players, with some players to stay. “I don’t get involved in the players’ lives. Now, I talk to the players because I am Sporting’s coach. I want to keep the group well. I spoke with the management. How are we going to manage the squad. “But no doubt if I leave, they will be disappointed in me. And sad with me. But it’s part of life. That happened in Braga. When I came from Braga, from Braga’s stability to here, that happened a bit. “And they were a bit disappointed. Because they really believed that we were building something special. But then things happen that change people’s lives. It is a difficult situation. “I can’t give more than that. I’m not going to tell you if I want to go or not. I understand that the players are even disappointed. Sad. But I have to live with it. “And the important thing is that we reach the end and we know how to explain everything. People understand it or not. The important thing is to show your face and explain it. And this I will do.”Don’t you feel that you are leaving for a club that has too much instability?”When I have something to say, I’ll have time to answer that question. Therefore, I will explain everything. Because I like to do it, because it’s easier, because the players deserve it, because the fans deserve it.”And whatever the decision, I will be here to say that I cannot comment on that question. That would be taking steps forward, which makes no sense at the moment.What can weigh on the exit? Don’t you feel like you can harm the project? Don’t you feel that players, like Gyokeres, who said they stayed because of the coach, can get upset?”First, no player was offered the clause. And that doesn’t change. There is no more stability than that. It’s easy to say, only someone leaves here because of the clause. “Then, it wasn’t Viktor who said that. He was Viktor’s agent. They are different people. I will not be talking about the decision or non-decision. I’ll explain everything. “What will force one way or the other, that doesn’t matter now. I’ll explain everything. READ MORE SUN STORIES”Now, speaking of that part, the club only lets assets be sold in the middle of the season, it seemed to me, it was always that rule, by the clause. “No player had proposals for the clause. None. In this respect, the project is not weakened because the rules remain. And the coherence remains.” More

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      Paul Scholes urges Ruben Amorim to DELAY Man Utd arrival for four weeks for bizarre reason

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      MANCHESTER UNITED legend Paul Scholes thinks the club should delay the appointment of Ruben Amorim as their new manager.The club sacked Erik ten Hag after a dismal start to the season on Monday and are moving fast to get the 39-year-old out his contract at Sporting Lisbon.Man Utd are set to trigger Ruben Amorim’s release clauseCredit: GettyPaul Scholes says the club should hold fire in appointing himCredit: X/ footballontntMan Utd are ready to pay the £8.3million release clause and Amorim is set to fly to England for talks.It remains possible that he could be in the dugout to face Chelsea on Sunday.However, Scholes reckons they should press pause on hiring the new man and leave Ruud van Nistelrooy in charge for potentially four weeks.He told SkyBet’s The Overlap: “I know he’s meant to sign in the coming days and hours, but Sporting play Manchester City next week, and Arsenal in the next three or four weeks [November 26].READ MORE ON MAN UTD”It might be a chance to give him a public interview – see how he handles the media and see how his team plays. “In England, we don’t watch a lot of Portuguese football, so we don’t know too much. “We see them a bit in European football and all the things we hear about him are good – exciting football, three at the back and possession based. If he comes in to do that, it could be exciting.”Scholes believes the Red Devils must “bow to whatever the new coach wants” when it comes to transfers and a new formation.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSBut the 11-time Premier League winner reckons they have missed out on the ideal boss for the job, adding: “I think Thomas Tuchel was the right one to coach Manchester United – but obviously he’s gone now with England. “He’s someone that can manage an elite football club and win big games. He’s been there and done it.Watch Sporting Lisbon fan reveal how you’ve been pronouncing incoming Man Utd manger Ruben Amorim’s name all wrong“On Amorim, the hype feels a bit like when Ten Hag joined, he’s coming from the Portuguese league which is a bit better than the Dutch league. “What he’s done there has been good, he looks charismatic and he has a bit about him.”Scholes thinks it was right to sack Ten Hag, explaining: “I felt there were just too many lows over his time at the club.”You think of the Liverpool game, the 7-0, which was devastating.”Manchester City a couple of times have given them some bad defeats. “This season, you think ‘will it change?’ and it didn’t quite work out.”There were two really damning results – that Liverpool game at home and then the Tottenham game [both 3-0], I think was the last straw.”Ruben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More

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      Man Utd being ordered to pay another £4MILLION to get Ruben Amorim despite offering to pay £8.3m release clause

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have been ordered to pay another £4million in their bid to land Sporting Lisbon coach Ruben Amorim.United have already agreed to pay the £8.3million release clause in Amorim’s contract.Manchester United will have to pay another £4m to get Ruben AmorimCredit: GettyAmorim is hoping to bring a number of his coaches to Old Trafford with him and it won’t come cheapCredit: GettyBut now, the Portuguese giants want extra cash to release three trusted members of Amorim’s backroom staffThe 39-year-old wants to take Sporting’s assistant manager Adelio Candido, assistant coach Carlos Fernandes and goalkeeper coach Jorge Vital with him to Old Trafford.Sporting are believed to be surprised that Amorim wants to take all three coaches. So they now want United to pay another £4.1m (€5m).United remain hopeful they will complete a deal before Sunday’s home Premier League game with Chelsea.READ MORE ON MAN UTDBut whether Amorim is in the dugout remains to be seen and caretaker Ruud Van Nistelrooy could still be in charge for that game with the new arrival watching from the stands.Amorim was in the dugout for Sporting’s 3-1 win over Nacional in the Portuguese league cup quarterfinal last night.Sporting fans gave their gaffer a mixed reception with supporters split on the rumours of his potential exit from Lisbon.The tactician headed straight down the tunnel at full-time, not acknowledging the support.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSWhile he refused to open up on his future in his post-match press conference.He said: “Nothing to say yet, no announcement to make. Now I have nothing to say, we are here carrying out analysis.Ruben Amorim jets in for Man Utd talks with Sporting boss set to be in charge for Chelsea clash on Sunday”Everything I say will only create more noise. There is nothing to say about the matter. There is the statement, everyone knows. It was said by the club.”Besides, we don’t know the details for sure. We’ll see. It will go through my decision as the statement said. But saying half things now doesn’t seem best to me.”Amorim remained coy on his future after Sporting’s 3-1 victory in the Portuguese league cup last nightCredit: GettyRuben Amorim is ‘Mourinho 2.0’ who turned Sporting from ‘walking dead’ into Portuguese champs… he can revive Man UtdWHEN Ruben Amorim took charge of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, one club official compared their situation to the “walking dead”, writes Jordan Davies.Optimism and hope was at an all-time low.But the Amorim-effect was almost instantaneous, guiding the Portuguese sleeping giants to their first league title for 19 years in 2020/21, losing just once and only conceding 20 goals.Since then, Sporting have lifted another league title in 2023/24 – as well as two League Cups – and currently sit top with nine wins from nine this term.He may be young, but Amorim already has an eye for rebuilding and revitalising fallen super powers with his infectious charisma and intense tactical philosophy that hardly ever wavers. The “walking dead” at Manchester United must be praying for a similar sort of revival.And they may just get it from one of the most talented young coaches on the continent – a man accustomed to breathing new life back into crumbling institutions such as Old Trafford.Amorim has spent the last decade dreaming of one day gracing England’s Premier League, such was his admiration for an ex-United boss in Jose Mourinho growing up.Often nicknamed ‘Mourinho 2.0’, Amorim spent a week with his coaching idol in an internship capacity at United’s Carrington training base in 2018, going on to cite him as his “reference point”.United should not be expecting a mini-Mourinho, as Amorim said himself: “Mourinho is one of a kind. There won’t be another Mourinho. Mourinho is unique.”And yet, you cannot help but compare the two.For all the mismanagement in the Old Trafford hot seats over the years, this would be a real get – finally a slap in the face United’s Prem rivals have no answer for. More