Incoming Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim described the last week as the “worst and best” of his life, capturing the bittersweet emotions he faces as he leaves Sporting CP to take the reins at Old Trafford. Following the announcement of his appointment as Erik ten Hag’s permanent successor, Amorim will make his final appearance as Sporting’s head coach in a UEFA Champions League clash against Manchester City, who will soon be United’s city rivals. The 39-year-old will officially start at United on November 11, taking charge after leading Sporting CP in one last European showdown on Tuesday.
Amorim reflected on the challenge of leaving behind Sporting, the club where he’s seen tremendous success, leading them to two Primeira Liga titles and an unbeaten start in their 2024/25 Champions League campaign. “It’s been the worst and best week of my life,” Amorim told TNT Sports. He continued, “I don’t have another way to explain [it]. Very tough because I’m leaving a very good place, but I’m going to one of the best clubs in the world.” As he opens a new chapter in his career, Amorim is excited but remains deeply appreciative of the relationships he’s developed at Sporting. He remarked, “I’m emotional but not in this part. I know because I was a player, and I know in our life we have to leave, to go, change our environment quite often.”
Leaving Sporting is especially challenging for Amorim due to his strong bonds with his players and coaching staff. “I’m very emotional in my relationship with the players and staff,” he admitted. This relationship is what he finds most difficult to let go, as he has forged a close connection with the people he’s worked alongside. “The last game, everybody’s looking at me. In the end, that part is not special for me,” he continued, emphasizing that it’s his personal connections rather than the spotlight that he finds most poignant. “For me, it’s the relationship with the players and in that part I’m very emotional.”
Ruben Amorim Ready for Premier League Challenge
As he embarks on this new role, Amorim is well aware of the intense demands of managing in the Premier League, often considered the toughest football league in the world. He acknowledged that life at Manchester United will be vastly different, calling the English top flight “a different world.” In Portugal, he explained, “You have the three big teams and then a lot of weeks tough games, but you control the games.” Amorim knows that the level of competition at United will be relentless, with every match a high-stakes challenge against elite teams and managers.
One of the most anticipated aspects of his move is the chance to regularly face some of the world’s top coaches, including Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola. Amorim described the Premier League as “tough to say that. It’s very challenging. In England, all the best coaches are there, all the best teams.” Although he’s excited about the prospect, he admitted, “To say I’m looking for a challenge like that every week, maybe not.” This willingness to test himself against the best, however, is what he believes he needs to grow further as a manager. Facing the demands of United’s high standards and England’s competitive atmosphere will be a significant shift from his experience in the Portuguese league.
Pep Guardiola “The Best Coach in the World” According to Amorim
Amorim’s final game with Sporting comes with a significant test, as he faces the “best coach in the world” in Pep Guardiola. However, he emphasized that his primary focus is on finishing strong with Sporting, saying, “For me it’s another game as Sporting coach. I will be judged as a Sporting coach. It’s a massive game for me.” He acknowledged the extra attention on this Champions League clash but added that his goal is solely to perform well for Sporting in his last match. He said, “I know it’s tough for Manchester United fans, and I think it’s the best team in the world.”
His admiration for Guardiola and City is clear, and while he anticipates a tough match, he is focused on Sporting’s objectives rather than making a personal statement. “This game is very important. It’s my last game in Alvalade, so that is my focus. The objectives of Sporting, my last game in Alvalade.” He added that while he understands the added interest from England, he is more focused on ensuring his players feel prepared and motivated.
Amorim reflected on the need to keep his players comfortable and focused rather than feeling pressure to impress English media and fans. “I’m more worried about my players feeling comfortable to play football, to win the game, than to show something to English fans and English media,” he said. His focus remains on the team, emphasizing that Sporting’s success comes from the players performing with confidence and skill.
The 39-year-old understands that his final Champions League match will be closely scrutinized, but he insists that he’s only thinking about making Sporting’s last game under his leadership a success. “I know that but I’m not thinking about it. Of course, I want a team that can control the ball, play without fear, but we will see tomorrow.”
Amorim added that the clarity of his future has been beneficial for his players, as they no longer have doubts about his commitment to this match. “Last week, they didn’t know if I am here to play this game. Now they feel that I’m going to stay for this game; they are more comfortable.” The coach hopes his players can enjoy the match and perform at their best, as Sporting sits eighth in the 36-team Champions League standings, matching City’s seven points from three games.
Amorim also addressed speculation surrounding Sporting’s director of football, Hugo Viana, who is set to join Manchester City next season. Despite rumors suggesting Amorim might follow Viana to City, he clarified that “my path is Manchester United.” He added, “We will be friends until the end, but I have my way. I chose Manchester United.” His loyalty to his path is evident as he expressed his commitment to helping United improve and rise to the challenge. “Manchester United is my club, Manchester City is his club. So it’s going to be fun. I hope to help Manchester United to improve and he will do the same.”
Amorim’s Final Focus on Sporting’s Success
Despite the upcoming transition, Amorim’s focus remains solely on Sporting’s immediate success. He remarked on his team’s strong season start, with 14 wins in their last 15 matches, and hopes to conclude his tenure with a victory. Sporting’s achievements under his guidance have positioned them among the top contenders in both the domestic and European competitions, and Amorim is determined to give Sporting’s fans one last memorable performance before departing.
As he faces his final match with Sporting and prepares to embark on his journey with Manchester United, Amorim is grateful for his time with the Portuguese champions. The bonds he’s formed with his players and staff will be difficult to part with, but his excitement for the challenges and opportunities at Old Trafford reflects his dedication to growth and ambition in the Premier League.
Nova88 stands out as the premier choice for online gambling enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled gaming experience that caters to both seasoned players and newcomers alike. By joining Nova88, members can take advantage of exclusive bonuses that elevate their gameplay and enhance their winning potential. With a vast array of games, secure transactions, and top-notch customer service, Nova88 ensures a thrilling and reliable environment for all its users. Don’t miss out on this opportunity—join Nova88 now and experience the best in online gambling.
