Video footage has surfaced highlighting the emotional connection between Ruben Amorim and the former Sporting CP player. It’s been almost a year since the Portuguese coach replaced the sacked Erik ten Hag as Manchester United manager.
After his appointment was confirmed, Amorim oversaw three more games for Sporting. The 5-1 thrashing of Estela in the Primeira Liga, the unforgettable 4-1 victory over Manchester City in the Champions League and the spectacular comeback win at Braga. Sporting were trailing 2-1, but with less than 10 minutes remaining, they won 4-2 in a dramatic fashion. It was the perfect end to Amorim’s tenure, which brought him two Primeira Liga titles.
His heartfelt final speech to the players was broadcast as part of a club documentary following the end of the 2024/25 season. He said this to the team: “I don’t like walk-offs. We win the championship. There’s no going back. The difference is huge.
“What you did in the second half was amazing! But will it be difficult from now on? It will be difficult for everyone. You have to help Quaresma, you have to help Pote, Genie, Ivan who does not play, Esgaio. It will be difficult.”
“We’re going to win this game… You guys are unbelievable, much better than Tuesday (against City). What I felt here in the second half… the third goal, the fourth goal, everyone, it was a great moment in football.”
Amorim’s speech was interrupted by applause from the group, and he was clearly emotional. He continued, “Everything you need from me, you will get.
“I’m rooting for you more than myself. Thank you for everything. You’re the greatest ever. Thank you for everything. No more goodbyes, okay, my boys?”
It’s fair to say that Amorim hasn’t built the same rapport with the United team yet, and he’s still trying to mold the team into a cohesive unit. After finishing in the bottom half of the table last season and losing in the Europa League final, expectations were high after investing heavily in new players in the summer.
However, the Red Devils have had a poor start to the season, raising questions about Amorim’s future at the club. However, he has the backing of minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who won 2-0 at Sunderland before the international break, leaving them just six points behind leaders Arsenal.
Amorim will be aiming to become the first United manager to win back-to-back league titles when his side travel to Liverpool on Sunday.
