Ruben Amorim: The Poet with a Plan at Old Trafford

Ruben Amorim walked onto the Old Trafford pitch for his first interview as Manchester United head coach, projecting calmness and confidence as he embraced the “massive challenge” ahead. He spoke of feeling “relaxed” and “at home,” and while many United fans are eager for his football philosophy to deliver success, his words offered a glimpse into the vision behind the appointment.

Amorim’s unveiling on MUTV was carefully timed, landing at 7pm on a Friday—often a moment to bury bad news. But the club is betting that the 39-year-old Portuguese manager will provide anything but. Here’s a breakdown of his key comments and what they reveal about his ambitions for Manchester United.

Chasing the ‘Special’ Feeling

“All the people are hungry for success, and this is the place I want to be. You can be part of something special, not just one more. And that is something that I really like.”

Amorim stopped short of labelling himself “the special one,” avoiding comparisons with compatriot José Mourinho. Instead, he framed his role as a chance to restore Manchester United to its rightful status as a club capable of greatness.

Having transformed Sporting Lisbon into champions after a 19-year drought, Amorim knows how to thrive under pressure. His success there—a title, two domestic cups, and an unbeaten league season—suggests he’s not afraid of the scale of the task at United, who last lifted the Premier League trophy a decade ago.

While Amorim didn’t explicitly name Manchester City, their shadow loomed over his words. Accepting a role at United, rather than waiting for Guardiola’s eventual exit at City, underlines Amorim’s appetite for rebuilding a legacy rather than inheriting one.