Ruben Amorim's rival makes statement on switch to Man Utd that speaks volumes

Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim is in line to become the next head coach of Manchester United and has been sent a message by one of his managerial peers

Ruben Amorim has received a glowing review from fellow Primeira Liga manager Tiago Margarido amid interest from Manchester United.

With Erik ten Hag axed, the Red Devils now have the daunting task of choosing his successor, but, if reported interest is anything to go by, they may already have their man.

Sporting CP boss Amorim emerged as a leading target in the wake of the Dutchman’s dismissal, and Mirror Football understands that links between both parties are ongoing, and it looks likely that Sir Jim Ratcliffe will get his No. 1 target.

United fans will be pleased to hear the praise bestowed upon Amorim by Margarido, the current head coach at league rivals Nacional – who Sporting bested 3-1 in the cup on Tuesday evening in what could be Amorim’s final game in charge – by which the 35-year-old claimed his adversary will succeed in the Premier League with his stellar attitude and above-par communication skills.

"Ruben [Amorim] is an example for younger coaches, not only because of what his teams show but also because of his attitude and ability to communicate," Margarido stated after being defeated by Amorim's side.

Having started his managerial career with Casa Pia – previously learning under former United boss Jose Mourinho – Amorim began a meteoric rise via a cup-winning spell at Braga, to the capital, where he guided Sporting to their first league title in 19 years in May 2021.

After a pair of domestic trophies, he landed a second league title last year, announcing himself as one of Portugal’s most promising managerial prospects, if not Europe's.

“Whatever happens, I wish him all the best,” Margarido continued. “I think he'll be a great signing for Manchester United and I think he'll be very successful in England.’

"Sporting hadn't scored from a direct free kick in four years and the truth is that goal [3-1] took us out of the game. We were beaten. What's noticeable at the moment is that there's a very big gap between the big teams and the others."

Whilst many feel as though the deal to bring Amorim to Old Trafford is all but sealed, the man himself has been coy on the matter, stating after his clash with Margarido’s Nacional: “Nothing is decided yet… I don't know if it's the farewell game or not.

"Nobody knows if it was a farewell match or if there will be a farewell. It's a matter that hasn't been decided yet. Let's analyse the match.”

Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge in the interim until a permanent solution is found, with a League Cup tie against Leicester looming.

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