Ruben Amorim’s idol Jose Mourinho backs Manchester United deal

Manchester United is bringing in Ruben Amorim, the head coach of Sporting Lisbon, to lead the team to regain form following a poor start to the Premier League season.

Ruben Amorim’s idol, Fenerbahce coach Jose Mourinho, who played a pivotal role in shaping his career, has also encouraged this decision.

Erik ten Hag’s departure opened the door for Amorim, known for his achievements at Sporting, where he led them to titles in 2021 and 2024, and secured a top European standing.

Ruben Amorim’s idol Jose Mourinho’s role in journey to Old Trafford

Amorim’s path to Manchester United is strongly influenced by Mourinho, who mentored him during his internship at Old Trafford in 2018. Ruben Amorim’s idol and his bond have grown since, with Amorim often expressing admiration for the former United manager.

In an interview with Tribuna Expresso, Amorim remarked: “Mourinho is my role model,” citing Mourinho’s approach to opponent analysis and adaptability as essential influences on his coaching style.

After United reached out, he sought advice from his mentor. Ruben Amorim’s idol, Mourinho, fully endorsed the move, stating, “Amorim has the conditions to be able to coach in any league and at any club.”

Amorim to make swift impact with assistant Carlos Fernandes

Ruben Amorim’s past successes reveal his ability to make an immediate impact. At Braga, he led the team to a League Cup victory against Porto in just 13 games, and United expects him to deliver similar results.

Amorim’s tactical approach, marked by his preferred 3-4-3 formation and a strategy of adapting to each match’s demands, has earned him a reputation for revitalizing struggling teams.

United will pay Sporting an additional fee to bring along Amorim’s assistant, Carlos Fernandes, who is praised by Amorim as “a future coaching talent.” With Fernandes by his side, Amorim intends to bring fresh energy to United’s training grounds.

However, he plans to stay with Sporting through their Champions League game against Manchester City next week before officially taking charge at Old Trafford.

Amorim’s track record at Sporting includes clinching titles in both Portuguese leagues and European competitions, and his presence has brought Sporting’s status back to the top tier of Portuguese football.

United, currently 14th in the Premier League, hopes that Amorim’s structured yet flexible approach can help them close the gap on their rivals.