Shock Exit Door Opens for Ruben Amorim at Manchester United

Former Benfica legend and vice-presidential hopeful Nuno Gomes boldly declared that Ruben Amorim will eventually take charge of the Lisbon club.

Gomes serves as deputy to João Noronha Lopes, a prominent candidate seeking to lead the Portuguese outfit when voting takes place in October. Noronha Lopes has already floated the idea of pursuing Manchester City skipper Bernardo Silva in January as part of his campaign strategy and now seems to be setting his sights on the Portuguese manager across the capital.

When questioned about the possibility of enticing Amorim from Old Trafford back to the club where he developed as a supporter and player, Gomes was initially cautious. "Ruben Amorim is Manchester United's manager, I cannot respond to that inquiry," he informed Record before becoming more assertive. "What I'm certain of is that Ruben Amorim will coach Benfica someday."

"João has already demonstrated in recent seasons that he can transform Benfica, making it stronger and distinct from what it has been lately," Gomes added.

Though he built his reputation as one of Europe's most promising coaches across Lisbon at Sporting CP, Amorim maintains deep ties with Benfica—and Gomes. The 40-year-old spent nine seasons with the club as a player—three of which coincided with Gomes' tenure.

While United's current manager maximized his technical skills to build a respectable career as a squad player for Spanish powerhouses, Gomes was an unquestioned superstar, particularly excelling in his international career.

The duo have stayed close and there's speculation that Amorim could be welcomed into the Benfica technical area should his Manchester United chapter conclude. Present manager Bruno Lage holds a precarious deal that runs out this summer and has received minimal indication of renewal.

When Amorim might become available is uncertain. United have suffered a disastrous opening to the current season, earning merely four points from four Premier League fixtures. The Portuguese manager's overall English top-flight record is equally concerning; showing played 31, lost 16, drawn seven, won eight—with half those victories coming against promoted teams.

United don't seem ready to dismiss their struggling coach—over £200 million ($272 million) was invested in players to fit his particular approach—but Amorim has consistently hinted at the possibility of resignation. "At times I consider quitting, at times I envision staying here for two decades," the refreshingly candid strategist reflected last month. "Sometimes I'm frustrated with my players, sometimes I adore my players."