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Sporting Lisbon manager Ruben Amorim has responded to Manchester United managerial links, moments after confirmation of Erik ten Hag’s sacking.
United released a statement on Monday morning, relaying that Ten Hag has stepped down from his duties after more than two years in charge.
Ten Hag’s final game was Sunday’s 2-1 loss at the hands of West Ham United at the London Stadium.
His assistant, Ruud van Nistelrooy, will step in as an interim boss while a permanent manager is sought. A number of top coaches have been linked to the job including Thomas Frank, Xavi Hernandez, Edin Terzic, Julian Nagelsmann, Graham Potter and of course, Amorim.
A report covered by The Peoples Person earlier this month claimed that the Red Devils made “specific enquiries” about Amorim.
During a presser ahead of Sporting’s Taca da Liga clash against C.D. Nacional tomorrow, Amorim was asked about the Ten Hag news and the speculation surrounding his potential switch to Old Trafford.
The 39-year-old refused to be drawn into the matter, insisting that he remains happy at Estádio José Alvalade.
He told reporters, “I was expecting that question and obviously I’m not going to talk about the future, because otherwise I’ll always have to comment, so it’s not worth it.”
“I won’t comment.”
“I’m very proud to be the coach of Sporting, that’s all.”
“Tenho muito orgulho em ser treinador do Sporting.” pic.twitter.com/woigLaKdwO
— B24 (@B24PT) October 28, 2024
Pressed further about United’s reported interest in Sporting’s teenage prospect Geovany Quenda, Amorim replied (via Metro), “I didn’t know about United’s interest, if there is any.”
“Quenda is still very young, has few games and it’s good that he keeps his feet on the ground. The price is not up to me, it’s up to the president. I won’t comment on my future.”
Amorim has led Sporting to two league titles since his appointment in 2020. At the moment, the Lions are top of the table, six points clear of Porto in second.