Manchester United: All you Need to Know About Ruben Amorim
Credit: Goal.com
Manchester United: All you Need to Know About Ruben Amorim
After Erik ten Hag was relieved of his duties on Monday after a miserable start to the season at Old Trafford, and Ruud van Nistelrooy taking over as interim manager, Manchester United have signed Ruben Amorim, the head coach of Sporting Lisbon after paying his release clause of around €10 million (£8.3m).
Amorim’s story is compelling: from his days as a determined midfielder in Portugal to emerging as one of Europe’s most exciting young coaches. Here is everything you need to know about Ruben Amorim and what he could bring to Manchester United.
Ruben Amorim was born on January 27, 1985, in Lisbon, Portugal. Growing up in a football-loving country, Amorim showed an early passion for the sport. Amorim’s professional career began at Belenenses, a Lisbon-based club, where he showcased his abilities as a central midfielder. His performances quickly caught the eye of top Portuguese clubs, and in 2008, he joined Benfica. At Benfica, Amorim became a regular figure in the midfield, admired for his tactical intelligence and ability to read the game.
During his time as a player, Amorim also represented the Portuguese national team. He played a part in Portugal’s squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
Trophies Won as a Player:
- 3x Primeira Liga (Portuguese League) titles with Benfica
- 1x Taca de Portugal (Portuguese Cup) with Benfica
- 4x Taca da Liga (Portuguese League Cup) with Benfica
After retiring from playing, Amorim transitioned into coaching in 2018. He started his career at Casa Pia, a Portuguese lower-division club, but his rapid rise began when he joined Braga B (the reserve team of SC Braga). It was clear early on that Amorim had a unique approach to coaching, combining tactical knowledge with strong communication skills. In January 2020, he was promoted to Braga’s first team and wasted no time making an impact.
Just months later, Sporting Lisbon took notice and appointed him as their head coach. The move was seen as a gamble at the time, given Amorim’s limited experience. However, it turned out to be a masterstroke.
Trophies Won as a Coach:
- 1x Primeira Liga (Portuguese League) title with Sporting Lisbon (2020-21)
- 2x Taca da Liga (Portuguese League Cup) with Sporting Lisbon
- 1x Portuguese Super Cup with Sporting Lisbon
Amorim’s triumph in delivering Sporting’s first league title in 19 years established his reputation as one of Portugal’s brightest coaching talents.
Some Sporting fans are yet to process the fact Amorim has left to be in charge of another club, with emotions getting the better of one elderly supporter interviewed by SIC Noticias in Lisbon.
Amorim is known for using a 3-4-3 formation, which relies on three central defenders and wingbacks. This system gives his teams defensive solidity while allowing them to attack with width. Despite his preference for 3-4-3, Amorim’s tactics are adaptable. He adjusts formations to suit his squad’s strengths and weaknesses, making him a versatile tactician.
Amorim’s teams press high up the field, looking to win the ball back quickly. This style is influenced by modern European tactics, similar to those used by coaches like Jurgen Klopp.
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A notable aspect of Amorim’s tenure at Sporting is his commitment to developing young players. Sporting has always been known for its youth academy, and Amorim has capitalized on this, integrating young players into his starting lineup.
This approach could be especially appealing to Manchester United, known for its legacy of promoting youth.
Ruben Amorim’s style is not just about defense. His 3-4-3 system allows for a dynamic attack, with wingbacks providing width and the front three creating goal-scoring opportunities. Fans of exciting, offensive football would appreciate his approach.
Amorim is known for his strong communication skills, which help him motivate players and build team unity. Despite his young coaching career, Amorim has shown an impressive understanding of tactics and how to implement them effectively.
Unlike many managers who stick rigidly to one style, Amorim is flexible and willing to adjust based on the situation.Â
Speaking about Amorim, Mourinho told Mais Futebol: Â “I like him [Amorim] as a person, I like him as a coach.Â
“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 … .What is clear from my side is that I like the person and I like the coach.”
As Manchester United appoints Amorim, he is set to face new challenges, including adapting to the intense demands of the Premier League. Although his success in Portugal demonstrates that he can handle pressure, his move at Old Trafford will allow him to take his career to the next level.
Ruben Amorim’s journey from midfielder to one of Europe’s most promising young coaches is inspiring. Known for his tactical flexibility, commitment to high-energy football, and dedication to youth development, Amorim has already achieved great success in Portugal. And as he starts his career at Manchester United, fans can look forward to an exciting new chapter and hope he can bring back the club’s glory days.
