In an unexpected development at Old Trafford, Manchester United has reportedly parted ways with Erik ten Hag and is now deeply engaged in discussions to appoint Ruben Amorim, the current manager of Sporting Lisbon, as his successor. According to sources like FOOTBALLWAVE, the club is advancing negotiations with Amorim, a well-regarded figure in the Primeira Liga known for his coaching success.
However, many United fans have voiced their disappointment over this choice, with Zinedine Zidane, the legendary former Real Madrid coach, still considered the preferred candidate by much of the fanbase.
Ten Hag’s departure comes after a challenging period where United struggled with both performance consistency and off-field issues. When he first arrived from Ajax, there was optimism that he could steer the club toward success, but ongoing struggles—including key player injuries, inconsistent displays from major squad members, and underlying management issues—ultimately contributed to the board’s decision to relieve him of his role.
The spotlight now shifts to Ruben Amorim, a 38-year-old Portuguese coach praised for his modern tactical insights and ability to nurture young talent. With his adaptive tactics and a preferred 3-4-3 formation, Amorim transformed Sporting Lisbon, leading them to their first league title in nearly two decades during the 2020-21 season. Known for his innovative approach and player development skills, Amorim is seen as an appealing option to help Manchester United rebuild, with a focus on emerging talent and a forward-thinking style of play.
Despite the board’s apparent confidence in Amorim’s potential, the fan reaction has been one of strong preference for Zinedine Zidane. The former Real Madrid manager, who led his team to three consecutive Champions League titles, is seen as an ideal candidate by United supporters. Zidane’s proven success in managing top-tier talent and his revered reputation in global football give him a strong appeal, as fans believe he could be the figure to restore United’s standing in international football.
His absence from recent club management has only increased speculation about his future, leading many supporters to rally around the idea of him taking the reins at Old Trafford.
Social media platforms have reflected fans’ intense reactions, with many expressing frustration and disbelief at the potential appointment of Amorim over Zidane. Supporters have flooded comment sections, using emotive reactions and calling for the Frenchman’s appointment.
For fans, Zidane’s established record and iconic status seem better suited to United’s needs than Amorim, who, while promising, is still relatively young in his managerial career.
As Manchester United faces a critical moment, the board must weigh the importance of its strategic direction against the desires of its loyal supporters. While Amorim’s potential arrival could signal a fresh chapter focused on youth development and modern tactics, the growing calls for Zidane present a challenge for the club’s leadership.
Balancing a vision for the future with fan loyalty and expectations will be crucial as United navigates its next steps in finding the right path forward.