Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is already under pressure at Old Trafford after a wretched start to life in the Premier League.
Amorim took charge of the Red Devils in November 20224 after Erik ten Hag was sacked. His plan was never to take the job midway through the season, but circumstances meant that he was forced into the role, and he has struggled to turn the club around since.
A frustrating transfer window as seen the Portuguese bolster the Red Devils’ attack, but without a single penny of income via player sales, the remainder of the squad remains untouched.
’Dream’ Amorim scenario revealed
Amorim’s reputation remains undiminished in Portugal, though, and it has emerged that Benfica could see him as an ideal candidate to lead the club.
Prospective president Joao Noronha Lopes has emerged as the “dream” head coach of the club, according to deputy editor of Record Vitor Pinto.
Of course, much would have to fall into place for Amorim to join Benfica, who are, of course, fierce rivals of Sporting CP, the club that Man Utd signed him from.
But with the Portuguese struggling to make an impact at Old Trafford, what might once have seemed an impossible appointment is altogether more feasible.
Benfica’s presidential election will take place in October, by which time there is no guarantee Amorim will still be at Man Utd.
There is a tricky Premier League calendar to negotiate before then, with the Red Devils tackling Burnley before clashes against Manchester City (away), Chelsea (home), Brentford (away) and Sunderland (home) prior to a huge trip to Liverpool on 19 October.
If there is no sign of improvement after these games, Amorim’s position could be very fragile indeed.
Equally, though, there is little prospect of Benfica sacking Bruno Lage after a strong start to the season in Lisbon, but with Noronha Lopes targeting Amorim, the former Wolves boss will certainly be looking over his shoulder if the 59-year-old is elected.
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