Viktor Gyokeres Opens Up About His Special Bond with Ruben Amorim: "This Has Never Happened Before"

Viktor Gyökeres continues to express admiration for his previous Sporting CP manager and current Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim, even after an unexpected departure.

The prolific Swedish striker experienced his most successful period under Amorim's guidance in Lisbon. From his arrival in Portugal two seasons ago until Amorim's sudden move to United last November, Gyökeres netted an impressive 66 goals in 68 matches under the Portuguese manager's leadership.

Gyökeres's last home performance under Amorim featured a memorable hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League. The reigning Portuguese champions maintained an undefeated record across all tournaments when Amorim was recruited by United.

Following eight months of contemplation regarding his former manager's choice, Gyökeres acknowledged it was quite a "shock". "I've never experienced a coach departing mid-season while everything was progressing smoothly," he shared with France Football recently. Nevertheless, he harbored "no resentment".

"Indeed, it was unexpected, but I completely comprehend his choice," the 27-year-old thoughtfully observed.

It is broadly anticipated that Gyökeres will also depart Lisbon during the upcoming summer transfer window. While there had been persistent speculation about reuniting with Amorim at Old Trafford, it currently seems the Swedish forward will join competing club Arsenal for the next campaign—barring any remaining obstacles.

Should Gyökeres find himself opposing Amorim's United, it would represent a contest filled with reciprocal admiration. "We secured two consecutive titles for the first time in 71 years. It represents an extraordinary accomplishment, and naturally, Ruben Amorim was instrumental in achieving that," he praised enthusiastically.

"I cannot express sufficient gratitude to him," Gyökeres continued. "The tactical approach we employed under his leadership was perfectly suited to my abilities."

Amorim's Sporting utilized a disciplined three-defender formation, strategically timing their pressing while remaining positioned to launch rapid counter-attacks. Arsenal often struggle to find space against the crowded defensive lines typical of Premier League opposition, leading some to wonder how effectively Gyökeres will adjust to Mikel Arteta's tactical requirements.