Following Erik Ten Hag’s Manchester United departure, Ruben Amorim has emerged as the frontrunner to replace him. Amorim has had huge success in Portugal with Sporting CP and previously with Braga.
Ruben Amorim went from playing for Benfica (4.97) in midfield from 2008-2017 to guiding fierce Lisbon rivals Sporting CP (1.52) to the Portuguese Primeira Liga for their first title in 19 years in 2020-21. He went on to guide them to yet another league title in 2023-24.
Now the frontrunner for the Manchester United job, Amorim’s rise bears similarities to that of another former United boss, José Mourinho.
Who is Rúben Amorim?
Ruben Amorim is a rising star in European soccer management. A former Portuguese international, he has rapidly gained attention for his coaching achievements with Braga and Sporting CP. Amorim’s journey from player to top coach is remarkable and has led him to be considered a potential replacement for Erik ten Hag at Manchester United (100.95), who currently sit 14th in the Premier League.
Rúben Amorim’s Playing Career
Amorim was born on 27 January 1985 in Lisbon, Portugal. His playing career centred around his role as a midfielder. Known for his tactical intelligence, he was a hardworking and reliable presence on the field. Amorim spent most of his career with Portuguese giants Benfica, where he won three Primeira Liga titles, two Taça da Liga trophies, and the Taça de Portugal.
He represented Portugal at the international level, earning 14 caps. His career highlights included playing in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Amorim was valued for his discipline and ability to read the game, setting him apart as a midfield organiser. After retiring in 2017, he quickly transitioned into coaching.
Breakthrough with Braga
Amorim’s first coaching role was with Casa Pia in the Portuguese lower leagues. He soon joined Braga, where his coaching career took off. Appointed in 2019, Amorim made an immediate impact with his bold tactical approach. He focused on high-pressing and developing young talent. Under his guidance, Braga won the League Cup in 2020. His success at Braga quickly attracted attention from larger clubs.
Sporting CP Success
In 2020, Sporting CP paid a record €10 million release clause to secure Amorim. His task was to revive Sporting and break the dominance of rivals Benfica and Porto. Amorim’s focus on youth development and a high-tempo, possession-based style quickly transformed the club. In his first full season (2020–21), he led Sporting CP to their first league title in 19 years. The team also won the Taça da Liga that season.
Amorim’s achievement with Sporting CP positioned him as one of Europe’s top young coaches. His emphasis on modern tactics and youth development has drawn comparisons to other elite managers.
Rúben Amorim as a Potential Erik ten Hag Replacement
As Manchester United consider their options, Amorim has emerged as a candidate. His ability to revitalise clubs with fresh tactics and focus on player development could be an asset. With a proven track record at Sporting CP, Rúben Amorim may be a strong fit for a club in need of innovation and stability.
Sky Sports reported that Amorim has informed Sporting of his intention to leave the club and United appear to be willing to pay his release clause, which according to the Independent is around £8.3 million.
Although it is not yet official, it appears that at Old Trafford, a new era may soon be underway under Amorim.
