Amid rumours of a move to Liverpool in the summer, Sporting manager Ruben Amorim has now admitted he may not stay in Portugal for another season.
That was today said in a press conference ahead of the Lisbon derby against Benfica, which will be decisive for the league title.
Quizzed by O Jogo, Amorim was asked whether he can say that he’s staying at Sporting beyond the summer.
“No, I can’t guarantee it,” said Amorim.
Amorim was also asked about when he’ll take the decision on his future.
“Sporting is already dealing with the future, I can’t decide. I gave my word and I can’t go back on it. If we don’t win titles, I’ll leave Sporting. It was clear from the start, it was the bet I passed on to the players. We have to win titles. First we’ll see if we can do it and then we’ll decide things. It’s not a worry, the future has been planned for a long time. We’re outlining all the situations for next season. So I can’t guarantee that I’ll stay, we have to win titles. And we’re on the right track.”
“I don’t want to dwell on my future, the focus is on this game. I’m not going to discuss anything with Sporting. I owe Sporting a lot, I’m very happy here. I’ll never put pressure on myself to leave.”
Not long ago, the manager had already said he’d leave Sporting if they don’t win a big title this season, so his comments aren’t totally related to another club.
A farewell with a trophy would be the much better ending for all involved, so both scenarios seem positive for clubs who want him.
Liverpool remains the standout destination for Amorim, with Barcelona reports not really getting off the ground despite sound big claims in the English media.
Now it’s a case of wait and see, and the manager’s mind will be totally on Saturday evening’s derby.
