Ruben Amorim, the former Manchester United manager, has emerged as a managerial target for AC Milan, according to reports circulating in Italian media. The 38-year-old, who shares a birthdate only nine days removed from Cristiano Ronaldo, quickly transitioned from player to coach after a career cut short by recurring physical issues at the age of 31.
Amorim began his coaching career in 2018 with Casa Pia, guiding them to promotion before a brief suspension due to a lack of proper licensing. This experience led to opportunities at Braga, initially with the B team, before a swift promotion to the first team where he impressed with a strong run of results, including a League Cup victory over Porto in 2020. His success at Braga prompted a move to Sporting Lisbon in March 2020, with the club paying a reported €10 million for his services.
At Sporting, Amorim enjoyed a highly successful spell, winning two league titles in 2021 and 2024, ending a 19-year drought for the club. He implemented his preferred 3-4-2-1 formation, building a team renowned for its defensive solidity and attacking prowess, with Pedro Gonçalves as a key goalscorer. Amorim credits Jorge Jesus, his former coach at Belenenses and Benfica, as a significant influence, praising his tactical depth and perfectionism, while also admiring the man-management skills of Jose Mourinho.
Despite his success in Portugal, Amorim’s stint at Manchester United, beginning in November 2024, proved less fruitful. He won 38% of his matches in charge, reaching the Europa League final in 2025 but ultimately losing to Tottenham. The tactical system he favoured did not fully resonate with the squad, accustomed to 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 formations. He ultimately left the club in January, and has since returned to his family in Portugal, with connections to influential figures like Antero Henrique, currently working in Qatar. The possibility of a move to Milan represents a chance for Amorim to reignite his managerial career and implement his tactical vision at a club with a rich history.
