Ruben Amorim responds to quit rumours and makes Man United stance clear

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim's future at Old Trafford is already in question early in the season after a slow start, and he has spoken out on the prospect of whether he'd quit his job

Ruben Amorim has publicly addressed rumours linking him to a return to Portugal to coach Sporting CP’s rivals Benfica amid speculation about his future at Manchester United.

Amorim had supposedly been identified as a potential successor following Bruno Lage's dismissal, with his own future at Old Trafford appearing uncertain in recent weeks. The former Sporting boss has endured a difficult first year in England, and he's recorded just two wins in United's opening five Premier League matches this term.

Reports in Portugal suggested that Joao Noronha Lopes, a candidate in next month's Benfica presidential election, admires Amorim. The 40-year-old head coach was said to feature on his list of potential managerial candidates.

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In response to the rumours, Noronha Lopes said: "Ruben Amorim? He's a great coach, he has a contract with Manchester United. I won't comment on that. Of course I like him. He's a great coach and a Benfica fan. I don't have a contract for Ruben to sign."

All that speculation ended end when Jose Mourinho was unveiled by Benfica last Friday.

Amorim was later asked about the appointment of the 'Special One' during a post-match interview after the 2-1 win over Chelsea.

Amorim completed an internship under Mourinho at United early in his coaching career, and was very complementary to his compatriot.

"He’s the best Portuguese manager, and that won’t change," Amorim told Portuguese channel DAZN. "He’s always been a very special person in our football, but also in the world, and he opened all the doors for us.

"I wouldn’t be here if it weren't for Jose Mourinho. I think it’s going to be a lot of fun for you all in Portugal, and we're going to enjoy it."

On his own situation, Amorim confirmed he had no intention of quitting or moving on, responding to the rumours: "It's what it is and we'll see what happens. But [I'm] focussed only on Manchester and that will be my only club."

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