"I Was Told It Was Now or Never" - Amorim on Manchester United Move

Ruben Amorim has revealed that he initially intended to take over as Manchester United's manager at the end of the season but was persuaded to accept the role mid-season after being told it was "now or never." The 39-year-old was confirmed as United's new head coach on Friday and will complete his transition from Sporting Lisbon on November 11.

Following Sporting's recent 5-1 league victory, which maintained their perfect start to the season, Amorim explained his decision process after United's approach. He had communicated to the president of Sporting that this would be his last season at the club, but was informed that the Premier League side required an immediate appointment after Erik ten Hag's dismissal on Monday.

"The season started well, and then Manchester United came along," Amorim explained. "They paid above the compensation clause, and the president had to defend the club's interests. I never discussed anything with the president, but for three days I said I wanted to stay until the end of the season. However, I was told it was not possible. It was now or never, or Manchester would go for another option. So, I had three days to make a decision that changes my life radically."

Amorim has signed a contract that will keep him at United until June 2027, becoming the sixth permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. He has garnered a reputation as one of Europe’s most promising managers, having led Sporting to two league titles, including the club's first in 19 years. Despite offers from other clubs, Amorim was adamant that he only wanted Manchester United for his next move.

"I’ve had other opportunities—this is not the first or second time I’ve been approached by another team. But I didn’t want another team," he stated. "After Sporting, I wanted Manchester. I want that context because it allows me to do things my way, and the club believes in me. There comes a time when I have to take a step forward in my career. That’s what happened."

Amorim emphasized that it was not solely about money, noting that another club had offered him "three times more" than United. "This was the best phase of my life, and I understand the disappointment of the fans," he said. "But today is not a farewell. We still have two important games against Manchester City and Braga to maintain the lead."

As United sits at 14th in the Premier League after nine matches, Ruud van Nistelrooy will oversee the next three fixtures as interim manager before Amorim takes charge. Amorim has expressed his desire to bring his current coaching staff with him to United, having worked with them since his first managerial role at Casa Pia in 2018.

"I will take my staff with me. That was always one of my conditions," he confirmed. "I brought them with me since Casa Pia." Additionally, he ruled out pursuing any players from Sporting during the January transfer window, despite watching standout performances from players like Viktor Gyokeres.

Premier League managers have responded positively to Amorim's appointment. Ipswich Town's Kieran McKenna, whose team will host United in Amorim's first match on November 24, expressed good wishes for the new manager. Chelsea's Enzo Maresca also extended his best wishes, acknowledging the decision made by United's leadership.

Amorim will be tasked with revitalizing a struggling United side that has failed to find its footing this season. The team recently faced challenges, including a 3-0 defeat to Tottenham earlier in the season. Looking ahead, Amorim is set to lead United into the EFL Cup quarter-finals against Spurs, marking a crucial moment for both him and the club.