It has been revealed that Manchester United were considering three other managers before opting to pursue Ruben Amorim from Sporting CP.
It was reported by David Ornstein on Monday that United had opened talks to pay Amorim's €10m release clause with the 39-year-old manager keen to make the move to Old Trafford.
This comes after United made the decision to sack Erik ten Hag as manager following the club's worst-ever start to a Premier League season.
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Following United's defeat to West Ham at the London Stadium, they sit 14th in the Premier League and have scored just eight goals in their first nine games.
United released the following statement to confirm the news of Ten Hag's dismissal: "Erik ten Hag has left his role as Manchester United men’s first-team manager.
"Erik was appointed in April 2022 and led the club to two domestic trophies, winning the Carabao Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024.
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"We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.
"Ruud van Nistelrooy will take charge of the team as interim head coach, supported by the current coaching team, whilst a permanent head coach is recruited."
With the news of United's pursuit of Amirom coming so soon, it would be safe to assume he was the only option they considered, however, according to The Athletic there were three other names in the hat.
A recent report states that United considered appointing Max Allegri, however, the former Juventus manager was considered less likely to build for the long term.
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The report also states United the recently unemployed Edin Terzic who guided Borussia Dortmund to the Champions League final last season, as well as former Barcelona manager Xavi.
Following Sporting's 3-1 win against CD Nacional on Tuesday, Amorim broke his silence on the rumours linking him to Old Trafford.
"Nothing is decided yet... I don't know if it's the farewell game or not," he told reporters.
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"I have nothing more to say, we are analysing the game and anything I say will only create more noise. There is nothing concrete..."
Topics: Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Ruben Amorim, Premier League, Sporting CP
Tom Jenkins