Ruben Amorim has been appointed as the new manager of AC Milan, the club confirmed on Saturday. The Portuguese coach arrives from Sporting Lisbon, becoming the third Portuguese manager to take charge of the Rossoneri in recent years, following Paulo Fonseca and Sergio Conceição, with Massimiliano Allegri being the exception.
Amorim’s appointment follows a period of restructuring at Milan under owner Gerry Cardinale and sporting director Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who were seeking a manager to implement a modern, high-intensity style of play. Amorim is known for his tactical approach centered around a high press, quick transitions, and a strong emphasis on defensive organisation. He guided Sporting Lisbon to the Portuguese Primeira Liga title, ending a 19-year drought, and secured a third-place finish with Braga in the Portuguese top flight.
Prior to his success in Portugal, Amorim had a brief spell at Manchester United, where he reached the Europa League final despite a relatively short tenure. His time at Old Trafford demonstrated his ability to compete on the European stage, though his overall impact was less pronounced than his achievements with Sporting and Braga. The appointment marks a return to Serie A for a manager who has quickly gained a reputation as one of Europe’s most promising tactical minds.
Throughout his career, Amorim has been known for his confident and often outspoken personality. Reports in Italian media recall several notable quotes from the manager, including a past declaration of his ambition to coach Milan, and a firm stance against being dismissed from Sporting Lisbon, stating, “If they want, they can fire me: I’m not leaving from here.” These statements highlight a strong self-belief and a commitment to his tactical vision.
The move to Milan represents a significant opportunity for Amorim to establish himself as a top manager in one of Europe’s most prestigious leagues. Milan will be hoping that Amorim can restore the club to its former glory and compete for major honours, both domestically and in the Champions League. His arrival signals a clear intent from the club’s ownership to embrace a proactive and modern approach to football.
