Ruben Amorim: New Man Utd boss gives reason for moving to Old Trafford
Ruben Amorim revealed he asked to delay his Manchester United start time until the end of the season but was told it was “now or never” to take the job – as he passionately defended his exit to Sporting fans.
Amorim was confirmed as United boss on Friday but Amorim revealed he was given an ultimatum to take the job now – or lose his chances of getting it.
The 39-year-old also revealed he spent three days deciding his options – and changed his mind several times in the process – before eventually agreeing to move to the Premier League.
Speaking after Sporting’s win over Estrela, Amorim said: “The situation is: at the beginning of the season, I had a talk with him and Hugo Viana [then-sporting director] and I said that whatever happened, this would be my last season with Sporting. The president is here, he can confirm that.
“The season started, we know that we started very well. Then the Manchester United situation came and they appeared. They paid above the release clause. I never discussed anything with the president about this bargaining. The only question I made was only to go at the end of the season.
“For three days, I said I wanted to stay until the end of the season. But I was told it was not possible, I was told it was now or never, or Manchester United would go for another option.
“I have had other opportunities, the president and Viana can confirm this is not the first or the second time I was asked for by another team.
“I wanted that one in Manchester. I want that context. That context allows me to do things my way. It’s just like Sporting. There’s time when I have to take the step forward. It was harder for me than for any Sporting fan but I had to do this.”
Amorim added: “I will change my kids lives so there were a lot of things. I’m not just a coach, I’m a parent.
“It’s just something that was extremely challenging, just like I felt with Sporting. So I decided to go. And I don’t think I will be back to Portugal any time soon.”
Sky Sports
