As Manchester United’s faithful eagerly await the dawn of a new era under incoming head coach Rúben Amorim, a cloud of uncertainty looms over the Portuguese tactician’s arrival. The 39-year-old, appointed as Erik ten Hag’s successor at the Theatre of Dreams, finds himself in a race against time to secure a crucial piece of documentation – his work permit.
However, a source close to the club has revealed to media outlets that the Red Devils remain confident Amorim will have his paperwork in order well before his anticipated touchline debut against Ipswich Town on November 24th. The insider, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the visa application process is “proceeding positively” and that the club foresees no significant hurdles that would prevent their new manager from taking his place in the dugout at Portman Road.
Backroom Staff Await Green Light
The visa conundrum extends beyond Amorim himself, as United also eagerly anticipate the necessary clearances for the manager’s backroom staff. The club has refrained from officially announcing the composition of Amorim’s support team until all work permits are secured. The source confirmed that an announcement will be made once the visas are processed, shedding light on the new-look coaching setup at Carrington.
Van Nistelrooy Departs, Fletcher Stays Put
In the interim, United bid farewell to caretaker manager Ruud van Nistelrooy on Monday. The Dutch legend had taken the reins for the club’s previous four matches following the dismissal of Erik ten Hag. Alongside Van Nistelrooy, coaches Rene Hake, Jelle ten Rouwelaar, and Pieter Morel have also parted ways with the Red Devils. However, fans will be relieved to learn that Darren Fletcher, a beloved figure at Old Trafford, is set to remain as part of the coaching setup under Amorim.
Amorim’s Carrington Welcome
Amorim’s Manchester adventure began on Monday as he arrived at the club’s famed Carrington training complex. The former Sporting CP boss was greeted by a welcoming party consisting of Chief Executive Officer Omar Berrada, Sporting Director Dan Ashworth, and Technical Director Jason Wilcox. The quartet engaged in discussions, laying the groundwork for the Amorim era at United.
On Tuesday, Amorim had the opportunity to meet a handful of players who were undergoing rehabilitation work at Carrington. Among them were Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, Kobbie Mainoo, and Mason Mount. However, the majority of the first-team squad are either on international duty or enjoying a well-deserved break, with their return to training scheduled for early next week.
Old Trafford Tour and Media Duties
On Thursday, Amorim was treated to a tour of the iconic Old Trafford stadium, allowing him to soak in the rich history and grandeur of his new footballing home. As for his first official media appearance as United manager, the source indicated that Amorim will not participate in a formal unveiling press conference. Instead, he is expected to face the press ahead of the trip to Ipswich Town. Prior to that, the Portuguese will give his first interview as United boss to the club’s in-house television channel, MUTV.
Baptism of Fire in Europe
Following his baptism of fire in the domestic cup competition against Ipswich, Amorim will make his Old Trafford bow in a high-stakes Europa League clash against Norwegian outfit Bodo/Glimt on November 28th. The European fixture will provide an early litmus test of Amorim’s ability to navigate the challenges of continental football and set the tone for his tenure at the helm of the English giants.
As the clock ticks down to Amorim’s first match in charge, United supporters around the globe will be hoping that the visa process concludes swiftly, allowing their new manager to hit the ground running. With a fresh perspective and a track record of success in his native Portugal, Amorim’s arrival has ignited a sense of optimism among the Old Trafford faithful. Now, all eyes are on the paperwork that stands between the Portuguese tactician and his United destiny.
