Ruben Amorim Declines West Ham Offer, Remains Linked to Premier League Jobs

Ruben Amorim, the highly sought-after manager of Sporting Lisbon, has reportedly declined an offer from West Ham United to become their new manager. Amorim flew to London on a plane arranged by the West Ham owner to discuss the position but ultimately decided the project was not to his liking.

West Ham had identified Amorim as a potential replacement for current manager David Moyes, whose contract expires on June 30. The Hammers have been drawing up a shortlist of managerial candidates, with Amorim being one of the options. However, it is now believed that Amorim only held talks with West Ham to pressure Liverpool, who had initially considered him a frontrunner for their vacant managerial position.

Despite rejecting West Ham, Amorim remains a strong candidate for a Premier League move. The 39-year-old Portuguese manager has been linked with several top clubs, including Liverpool, Manchester United, and Chelsea. Amorim's success at Sporting Lisbon, where he led the club to the Primeira Liga title in 2021 and won back-to-back Taça de Liga trophies, has made him one of the most exciting coaching talents in Europe since José Mourinho.

Manchester United are now seen as the most likely destination for Amorim if he decides to leave Sporting Lisbon. The Red Devils are currently reviewing the management of Erik ten Hag, and if he is sacked, Amorim is reportedly at the top of their list of potential replacements. Amorim's release clause for elite clubs is set at £8.6 million, making him an attractive option for Premier League teams looking for a new manager.

Why this matters: Ruben Amorim's decision to decline West Ham's offer and his ongoing links to top Premier League clubs highlight the growing influence of Portuguese managers in English football. Amorim's potential move to a club like Manchester United could significantly impact the balance of power in the Premier League and showcase the talent emerging from Portugal's coaching ranks.

As West Ham continues their search for a new manager, they are now focusing on other candidates such as former Wolves manager Julen Lopetegui. However, some within the club believe that a younger manager like Amorim would be a better fit for the team's long-term goals. The coming weeks will be crucial for West Ham as they look to appoint a manager who can lead the club to success in the Premier League and European competitions.

Key Takeaways

• Ruben Amorim, Sporting Lisbon manager, declined West Ham's offer to become their new manager.
• Amorim held talks with West Ham to pressure Liverpool, who had considered him for their vacancy.
• Amorim remains a top candidate for Premier League clubs, including Manchester United and Liverpool.
• Amorim's release clause is £8.6 million, making him an attractive option for Premier League teams.
• West Ham is now focusing on other candidates, such as former Wolves manager Julen Lopetegui.