Ruben Amorim delivered a remarkable outburst following Manchester United’s 1-1 draw at Leeds United on Sunday, where he strongly suggested he would leave the club when his current contract expires, reports BritPanorama.
The 40-year-old Portuguese is under contract with Old Trafford until the summer of 2027. Amorim emphasized his aspirations, stating, “I came here to be the manager of Manchester United, not to be the coach of Manchester United. And that is clear.”
In a press conference laden with implications about his future, Amorim reiterated his intent to depart Old Trafford when his current deal concludes, saying, “It’s going to be like this for 18 months, or when the board decides to change. That was my point, I want to finish with that. I’m not going to quit. I will do my job until the other guy is coming here to replace me.”
He insisted that his tenure will run the duration of his contract and stressed that he is fully engaged in his role. “I just want to say that I’m going to be the manager of this team, not just the coach. And I was really clear on that. And that is going to finish in 18 months and then everyone is going to move on. That was the deal,” he explained.
Amorim was vocal about the responsibilities of other departments within the club, emphasizing the need for collaboration. “Every department, the scouting department, the sporting director needs to do their job. I will do mine for 18 months and then we move on,” he stated. His comments came in response to criticism from pundits such as Gary Neville, highlighting the necessity for the club to withstand scrutiny.
Director of football Jason Wilcox speaks daily with Amorim and they have discussed tactical formations, with Wilcox reportedly favouring the 4-3-3 system popularized by Manchester City. The press conference followed increasing tension behind the scenes at Old Trafford.
Amorim has hinted at potential issues during his recent media duties, remaining tight-lipped about transfer window activities. Over the Christmas period, he indicated that significant spending for the January transfer might not materialize, suggesting he may need to adapt his strategies. Despite climbing to fifth in the Premier League following the draw, United has secured only one victory in their last five matches and faces Burnley at Turf Moor on Wednesday.
Ultimately, Amorim’s admissions reflect a complex web of expectations, accountability, and the pressures that come with leading a club of Manchester United’s stature. As he charts the course of his leadership, the dialogue between ambition and reality weighs heavily on the club’s future.
