Ruben Amorim, the former Manchester United head coach, is reportedly the leading candidate to take over at AC Milan. This development comes as the Serie A club undergoes a significant restructuring following their failure to qualify for the Champions League. The appointment of Amorim is part of a thorough process, with Milan exploring various options after sacking Massimiliano Allegri and his executive team.
Amorim, aged 41, held talks with Milan in Portugal last week, indicating a serious interest in the role. His potential appointment is a surprising turn of events, given his recent dismissal from Manchester United in January. Amorim's sacking came after a disappointing season, where United finished 15th in the Premier League, their worst performance in the top-flight era.
The Portuguese coach had been one of the most highly-rated coaches in Europe, having won two Primeira Liga titles with Sporting CP. However, his time at Old Trafford was marked by tension and a controversial 3-4-3 system, which led to his dismissal. Despite his success in Portugal, Amorim's tenure at United was short-lived, and he was replaced by Erik ten Hag.
Milan's initial target, Andoni Iraola, was also a candidate, but the club's plans were disrupted by Liverpool's decision to appoint Arne Slot as their new manager. This left Milan in a position where they had to reconsider their options, with Mauricio Pochettino, Oliver Glasner, Matthias Jaissle, and Sebastian Hoeness all being considered.
The club is also in the process of appointing a new head of football, with Ralf Rangnick being interviewed for the role. This role will sit above the prospective head coach, indicating a significant organizational shift at the club. The recent changes at Milan highlight the dynamic nature of the football world, where coach appointments can be swift and often unexpected.
In my opinion, the interest in Ruben Amorim showcases the football world's fascination with experienced coaches who have proven their mettle in previous roles. Despite his recent dismissal, Amorim's success in Portugal and his potential impact on Milan's future could make him a valuable addition to the club. The appointment process, however, also underscores the challenges of managing expectations and the delicate balance between past achievements and future potential.
