Following his final match as Sporting Lisbon’s head coach, where he celebrated a dramatic 4-2 comeback victory over Braga, Ruben Amorim is set to take over one of football’s most high-profile managerial roles at Manchester United. As he prepares to make the move to Manchester, one of his first priorities will be addressing the future of Ruud Van Nistelrooy at the club. The United legend, who is eager to maintain a coaching position, is currently waiting for Amorim’s decision on his role.
After Erik ten Hag’s departure in late October, Van Nistelrooy stepped in as interim manager and led the team to an impressive unbeaten run of four matches, with three wins and a draw. A key figure in United’s history with 150 goals under Sir Alex Ferguson, Van Nistelrooy has expressed his desire to stay on, though he acknowledges that the final decision lies with Amorim.
Amorim has recognized Van Nistelrooy’s positive influence at the club but emphasized that further clarity will only come after their talks. “He’s a club legend, and he did a great job,” Amorim said after his final match with Sporting. “I need to speak with him tomorrow (Monday) and then I will explain everything clearly. I will be honest and direct, so let’s wait until then.”
United fans at Old Trafford gave Van Nistelrooy a heartfelt send-off following the team’s 3-0 victory over Leicester, with supporters visibly moved by the moment. Reflecting on his time as interim manager, Van Nistelrooy described the experience as “a closure for that period,” while expressing hope for the future. “It was a beautiful moment to share with the supporters. It felt special,” he added.
Should Van Nistelrooy be retained, he will join a newly revamped coaching staff. Amorim is expected to bring with him his trusted assistants from Sporting Lisbon—Emanuel Ferro, Adelio Candido, and Carlos Fernandes—who have helped implement his 3-4-3 system. The trio will play a crucial role in adapting this system to United’s style and to the Premier League’s demands.
Amorim’s first match in charge of United will be a Premier League clash against Ipswich on November 24. During the international break, Amorim plans to work with the players not called up for national duty, preparing them for his preferred tactical setup. “I know how I’m going to play at the start,” Amorim explained. “You have to begin with a structure you know. Then, I will adapt with the players I have and discover more in the coming weeks.”
With little time to prepare, Amorim will lean on his proven system as he looks to adjust to his new squad and bring his vision to life at United.
🚨 Ruben Amorim: “Ruud van Nistelrooy is a legend of Man United. He did great job”.
“Will he stay? I’ve to talk with him in the next hours and then I will explain everything. Let’s wait”, told @lauriewhitwell. pic.twitter.com/oNuEdhRDeT
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 11, 2024
Manchester United performance and stats
Manchester United is currently 13th in the Premier League with 15 points.
In the last 11 games, it has won 4 times, drew 3 times, and lost 4 times. In its last match, Manchester United won 3-0 against Leicester City.
It has a even goal difference after scoring 12 goals and conceding 12.
Manchester United will play the next match in Premier League against Ipswich Town on Sunday 24th of November in Ipswich.
