Report: Man United Prioritises Immediate Change with New Gaffer Hire | OneFootball

Amorim’s Notice Period Battle: Man United Denies Delay Request

Ruben Amorim has unveiled a fascinating backstory to his upcoming move to Manchester United, one that reveals his commitment to Sporting Lisbon even as he prepares for a new chapter in the Premier League. The Portuguese manager expressed his preference to delay his transition until the season’s end but was ultimately overruled by Manchester United’s leadership, a revelation that underscores the intensity of his notice period with Sporting.

Amorim’s Initial Plans to Stay with Sporting Lisbon

In the lead-up to his departure, Amorim disclosed that he had approached Sporting’s hierarchy with a clear plan in mind: he wanted to remain at the club for the entire season. His conversation with Sporting’s president and Hugo Viana, the then-sporting director, was straightforward, with Amorim emphasising his intent to make the current season his last.

Reflecting on the situation, Amorim stated, “The situation is: at the beginning of the season, I had a talk with him and Hugo Viana and I said that whatever happened, this would be my last season with Sporting. The president is here, he can confirm that.”

It was with this understanding that Amorim had committed himself to the ongoing campaign, determined to leave a lasting impact at the club he helped elevate. However, Manchester United’s interest brought about an unexpected twist.

Photo: IMAGO

Man United’s Relentless Pursuit and Amorim’s Notice Period

Manchester United’s pursuit of Amorim was as swift as it was determined. The Premier League club agreed to pay a staggering €11 million (£9.25 million) release clause to secure Amorim’s expertise, emphasising their urgency in appointing a new head coach.

The Red Devils made it clear that they were unwilling to wait until the season’s end. As Amorim himself recounted, he initially requested an extension on his notice period, hoping to finish the season with Sporting before taking on the role at Old Trafford. However, United’s response was resolute: it was now or never.

“For three days, I said I wanted to stay until the end of the season,” Amorim revealed. “But I was told it was not possible; I was told it was now or never, or Man United would go for another option.”

Despite the limited time he had to weigh such a life-altering decision, Amorim ultimately chose to embrace the opportunity. He recognised the potential that this role presented, even though it required him to step away from Sporting earlier than he had envisioned.

A Final Farewell to Sporting Fans

Amorim’s final match before his departure announcement saw an emotional response from Sporting fans. As he led his team against Estrela Amadora, the crowd at Estadio Jose Alvalade honoured him with a standing ovation, though not all responses were warm. A banner outside the stadium bore the stark message: “Amorim, this is no longer your home, thank you!!”

The evening’s game itself turned into a showcase for Sporting’s star forward, Viktor Gyokeres, who scored four goals, driving his side to a resounding 5-1 victory. The win was a testament to the competitive spirit Amorim has instilled in his squad, even as he prepared to say goodbye.

His influence at Sporting has been undeniable, but for Amorim, the Premier League offered a distinct new challenge, one he felt ready to tackle. “I wanted that one in Manchester. I want that context,” he said, expressing his excitement about the move. “It’s just like Sporting. There’s time when I have to take the step forward. It was harder for me than for any Sporting fan, but I had to do this.”

Picture:IMAGO

Preparing for a New Gaffer Era at Old Trafford

Amorim’s brief but influential stint at Sporting Lisbon has left a lasting impression on Portuguese football. Now, he will bring that same intensity to Old Trafford, where Manchester United fans eagerly await his arrival. With just two matches left at Sporting – a Champions League clash against Manchester City and a domestic tie against Braga – the countdown to his departure has begun.

For Manchester United, Amorim’s appointment signals the dawn of a new era. The Portuguese manager’s tactical prowess and ability to develop young talent align perfectly with the club’s aspirations, and his no-nonsense approach to management has earned him a reputation that precedes him. United’s decision to bypass his request for an extended notice period underscores their conviction that he is the right man to steer them forward.

The challenges awaiting Amorim at United are manifold. The club has experienced a series of managerial changes in recent years, each one marked by hopes of restoring its glory. Amorim, however, seems undaunted by the prospect of revitalising the squad and instilling a fresh vision. His determination to embrace the challenge was evident in his parting words: “The change is radical in my life, but I had three days to make this decision. That’s what I did.”

As Amorim prepares to step onto the Old Trafford pitch as the new gaffer, fans of both clubs will watch closely. Sporting supporters will undoubtedly feel the absence of his leadership, while United fans will be hopeful that Amorim can finally be the transformative force the club has sought.

With Manchester United opting for immediacy over delay, they have set the stage for an exciting new chapter – one that Amorim himself eagerly anticipates.