The agent of highly-rated Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim has moved swiftly to quash sensational reports that his client was dismissed from a potential role at Manchester United before even starting.
Agent Osorio Sets the Record Straight
In a statement issued to the press, Carlos Osorio, who represents the 39-year-old Portuguese coach, categorically denied the bizarre narrative. Osorio labelled the story as "completely false" and insisted that "there is no truth to it whatsoever." This public rebuttal comes after a wave of online speculation suggested Amorim had been in advanced talks with the Old Trafford hierarchy, only for the deal to collapse acrimoniously.
The original report, which has now been widely discredited, claimed Amorim had been offered the Manchester United job but was then sacked before his appointment was officially announced. This sequence of events was always considered highly unusual within football circles, where such a public faux pas would be unprecedented for a club of United's stature.
Amorim's Stance and Sporting's Success
Ruben Amorim himself has previously been linked with several top European clubs, including Chelsea and Liverpool, thanks to his impressive work in Portugal. He is under contract with Sporting until 2026 and recently guided the club to their second Primeira Liga title under his leadership, cementing his reputation as one of Europe's most promising tactical minds.
When directly questioned about the Manchester United links in recent weeks, Amorim has maintained a professional focus on his current role. He has consistently emphasised his commitment to Sporting, where he is deeply admired by the fanbase for delivering sustained success. His current project involves rebuilding the squad for another title defence and a deeper UEFA Champions League run next season.
Implications for Manchester United's Search
This episode highlights the intense scrutiny and chaotic rumour mill surrounding Manchester United's ongoing search for a permanent manager. With Erik ten Hag's future still uncertain following a disappointing Premier League campaign, names like Amorim, Gareth Southgate, and Thomas Tuchel are frequently mentioned as potential successors.
The swift denial from Amorim's camp removes one clear candidate from the immediate speculation, at least for now. It also serves as a reminder of the challenges United face in conducting a discreet and structured recruitment process, as every potential lead becomes a global news story. The club's new minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, and his INEOS team are expected to lead a thorough review at season's end before making any final decision on the managerial position.
For Amorim and Sporting, the focus returns to the pitch. The manager's stock remains high, and while a move to a European giant seems inevitable in the future, his agent's firm statement indicates that any such transition will be handled through proper, official channels, not through unsubstantiated and dramatic online rumours.
