Manchester United’s decision to dismiss Rúben Amorim has triggered a more critical reaction in Portugal. Some voices now openly question his overall impact at Old Trafford.
One of the strongest assessments comes from journalist Mário Cagica, director of Portuguese TV show Bola na Rede. While previewing Sporting CP’s cup match against Vitória de Guimarães, he analysed Amorim’s 14-month spell at Manchester United and took a firm stance.
For Cagica, the wider picture matters more than isolated results. In his view, relayed by SIC Notícias, the overall balance of Amorim’s work points in a negative direction.
“If we look at the overall body of work of Rúben Amorim, it is a poor job,” Cagica said. “He did not meet objectives, the team evolved very little, and there is also the defeat in the Europa League final.”
Still, he acknowledged that the timing of the dismissal can be debated. He noted that Amorim left United in a relatively competitive league position, despite increasing pressure.
“Rúben Amorim leaves Manchester United – although he was already in a more fragile position – with the team inside its objectives, close to the Champions League places,” he explained.
Amorim aware his Manchester United time was up
Cagica also pointed to internal dynamics. In his analysis, Amorim became aware of his weakened standing and clashed with the club’s hierarchy, which led to an early end.
“He was in a difficult situation,” Cagica added. “The team was extremely irregular and could not maintain high competitive levels in every match. Injuries did not help. Still, if we look at the whole picture, it is a poor body of work from Amorim.”
In Portugal, this view stands out for its blunt tone. Rather than framing the sacking as premature, it presents Manchester United’s decision as a logical conclusion to an underwhelming cycle.
Meanwhile, Ole Gunnar Solskjær is being strongly linked with a return to Old Trafford.
