Ruben Amorim could be offered a lifeline, as bosses of a struggling European giants were in attendance to watch the Manchester Derby.
Since taking over in November 2024, Ruben Amorim has consistently stressed that Manchester United’s revival would be a gradual process, particularly as he introduced his 3-4-2-1 system.
The 2024/25 campaign was disastrous, with United slumping to 15th in the Premier League and losing the Europa League final to Tottenham.
While pre-season signs and transfer activity hinted at progress, the new season has started unevenly. United sit 14th after a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City, a loss to Arsenal, and a draw with Fulham, with their only league win coming against Burnley.
A shock League Cup exit to League Two side Grimsby Town intensified the scrutiny, leaving Amorim under heavy pressure heading into the Burnley clash, where another setback could have cost him his job.
INEOS have reportedly given him assurances of their support, but unless results improve, the club may explore alternatives.
Benfica could offer Amorim a lifeline
As reported by the Daily Mail, Joao Noronha Lopes, the leading candidate to become Benfica’s next president, was in attendance at the Etihad to watch United’s disappointing loss to their rivals.
Lopes has made it no secret that he wishes to take Amorim with him to Benfica if he manages to usurp the current president, Rui Costa.
Lopes was pictured with vice-president Nuno Gomes, who is one of Amorim’s best friends and played alongside him both for Benfica and Portugal, as well as general director Pedro Ferreira.
Gomes revealed it is the current United boss’ destiny to return to Portugal and Benfica, where he was a member of the academy and spent nine years as a player.
Gomes on Amorim to Benfica chances
When Gomes was asked if Amorim, a boyhood Benfica fan, would take over at Benfica if Lopes wins the election, he said: “Ruben Amorim is the coach of Manchester United, I can’t answer that question. One thing I know, Ruben Amorim will be the coach of Benfica one day.
“Joao has already shown in recent years that he is capable of changing Benfica, to make it greater and different from what it has been in recent years.”
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Despite having the worst win percentage of any permanent United manager since the Second World War at just 36.17% and overseeing the club’s worst start to the season in 33 years, INEOS insist that they will back him.
The current Benfica coach’s contract runs out at the end of the season, and could be ousted sooner if Lopes wins the election, which takes place on the 25th of October.
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