Sporting Lisbon has a strong and positive history with Manchester United, as evidenced by the transfers of Marcos Rojo, Nani, Bruno Fernandes, and Cristiano Ronaldo. Nevertheless, it is unlikely that current Sporting manager Ruben Amorim will also make the move to England. In November, he stated that Manchester United has not reached out to him, putting the speculation to rest. Depending on Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s evaluation of his two-year term, Erik ten Hag may still be leaving Old Trafford this summer. Instead of joining Manchester United, it appears that Amorim is more likely to sign with their biggest rivals as Liverpool turns their attention to the 39-year-old following Xabi Alonso’s choice to remain at Bayer Leverkusen. Manchester United may face defensive dilemmas as Erik ten Hag deals with the latest injury news. Sporting CP player Morten Hjulmand expresses his clear stance on transfers. Amorim, said to have a £17m release clause in his contract, led Sporting to their first Portuguese league title in 19 years in 2021 and currently has his team in the lead for the domestic title this season. A transfer to Merseyside is not guaranteed at this point and there are many factors that will need to be considered and negotiated by both parties. Last month, ex-Sporting player Fernandes expressed his belief that Amorim is prepared for advancement to the next level, but wishes for him to remain in Portugal. The captain of United stated to the press that while he hopes Amorim stays with Sporting, he believes he has the necessary qualities to thrive in English, French, or Spanish football if he chooses to take the next step. The Premier League is seen as the most desirable option. The necessary qualities to succeed in England are present. In my view, he has all the necessary qualities to progress further. However, whether or not he can advance will ultimately depend on the clubs and their directors deciding whether they are willing to meet Sporting’s release clause.
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