Enzo Maresca has shared his thoughts on Manchester United’s hiring of Ruben Amorim, expressing confidence in the new manager’s style and approach.
The 39-year-old Portuguese manager was appointed on Friday, just days after United parted ways with Erik ten Hag, who left the team struggling at 14th in the Premier League.
Amorim arrives from Sporting Lisbon on a two-and-a-half-year contract, with an optional 12-month extension.
However, as part of the agreement, he will stay with Sporting for three more games and won’t be in charge at Old Trafford this Sunday when United face Maresca’s Chelsea.
Maresca, who has closely followed Sporting’s games, is optimistic about Amorim’s potential impact at United. “Ruben Amorim will do a great job at Man United,” Maresca said. “I’ve watched many Sporting games and know the way they play. It’s a fantastic style, how they defend, the way they attack. I have no doubt he’s going to be successful.”
Chelsea, currently sixth in the league with 17 points from nine games, could climb as high as third with a win over United. Meanwhile, Ruud van Nistelrooy, serving as United’s interim manager, started his tenure strongly with a 5-2 victory over Leicester on Wednesday.
Reflecting on his brief role, Van Nistelrooy stated, “Erik ten Hag brought me back to Manchester United, and I’m grateful for the opportunity. I’ll continue giving my all to help turn things around.”
He added, “Despite the setbacks, I’m thrilled to be back at Old Trafford. We’ve glimpsed the squad’s potential, but consistency has been lacking. Now, it’s time for everyone—players, staff, and fans—to unite and change our season’s trajectory. When we’re all on the same page, Manchester United can be unstoppable.”
United moved swiftly to secure Amorim, overcoming a few contractual hurdles.
According to sources, the club paid an additional €1 million on top of the £8.3 million release clause to expedite Amorim’s departure, allowing him to familiarize himself with the club during the upcoming international break before his debut against Ipswich Town on November 24.
Until then, Van Nistelrooy will manage United’s matches against Chelsea, Leicester City, and a Europa League home fixture against PAOK. While his future remains uncertain, United’s players are reportedly eager for Van Nistelrooy to stay in a role under Amorim.
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