Why Sporting will not release Ruben Amorim early

Ruben Amorim acknowledges he may have to wait until after the international break before officially taking over as Manchester United manager, as Sporting Lisbon are intent on retaining him for their next three games, according to The Telegraph.

United’s approach to secure Amorim has led to a tug-of-war with Sporting, who want him to lead the team through upcoming matches against Estrela in the league on Friday, a Champions League fixture against Manchester City next Tuesday, and Braga the following Sunday.

Amorim’s commitment to Sporting has reportedly made him cautious about leaving mid-season, particularly ahead of their high-stakes game against City, which will take place at the Jose Alvalade Stadium.

In a statement on Tuesday, Sporting confirmed Man United’s interest in appointing Amorim following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag.

The Red Devils are prepared to meet the £8.3million release clause in the 39-year-old’s contract.

However, Portuguese reports indicate Sporting may require a 30-day notice period, delaying Amorim’s move until after these three matches.

If both clubs reach an agreement, this could see Amorim take charge at Man United in time for their November 24 match against Ipswich Town.

Additionally, some Sporting players are reportedly unsettled by the potential departure of Amorim, who is aware of the dressing-room sentiments and appears mindful of his team’s morale.

While United are eager to have Amorim on board as soon as possible, the timeline may require flexibility.

No deal has been finalised yet, with Chief Executive Omar Berrada spearheading negotiations. Berrada was present at Old Trafford on Wednesday night for United’s first match since Ten Hag’s departure.

Ruud van Nistelrooy, appointed interim manager, oversaw the Carabao Cup tie against Leicester City and may continue to lead United for their upcoming fixtures, including a critical Europa League clash with PAOK Salonika and a league match against Leicester.

These games are United’s last before the break, making it likely that Van Nistelrooy will remain on the touchline until then.

After Sporting’s 3-1 victory over Nacional in the Portuguese League Cup quarter-final on Tuesday night, Amorim avoided giving specifics about the ongoing negotiations, noting that he wanted to avoid “creating more noise” around his future.

“There’s nothing to talk about. There’s the club statement, everyone knows about it. It was said by the club. For the rest, we don’t know the exact details. We’ll see …,” he said.

“I can’t promise anything. What I do know is that I’ll be at training [on Wednesday] and I’ll be preparing for the league game with Estrela da Amadora on Friday.”

Read more: Manchester United reach agreement with Sporting for Ruben Amorim

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