Ruben Amorim has returned to management, taking the reins at AC Milan after leaving Manchester United in January
Ruben Amorim
Ex-Man United boss Ruben Amorim is the new manager of AC Milan
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Ruben Amorim has been announced as the new AC Milan manager, saving Manchester United millions in compensation payments. Amorim was relieved of his duties in January after just 14 months in charge - leaving United with a hefty £15.9million compensation bill for ending his contract early.
His departure also saw coaches Carlos Fernandes, Adelio Candido, Emanuel Ferro and Jorge Vital leave Old Trafford, with Michael Carrick brought in. During his five months out of work, United continued to pay Amorim compensation as he had initially signed a contract running until June 2027.
Having now succeeded Massimiliano Allegri at the San Siro on a two-year deal, the compensation figure is expected to be significantly reduced. Amorim's new salary will help balance out the cost for United.
Upon taking the role, he said: "There are ambitions that stay with you throughout your career, and coaching AC Milan has always been one of mine. I know exactly what this club means: history, prestige and a extraordinary fanbase around the world.
"It is a challenge I embrace with pride and enthusiasm, fully aware of what these colours represent. I can’t wait to get started and to experience every day the passion that drives AC Milan."
Milan chief Gerry Cardinale added: "We have tracked Ruben for years and his Sporting tenure is extremely impressive and reflects the style of play that we are looking for. "He is one of the most prepared and innovative coaches of the new European generation – young, ambitious, and with a modern footballing identity defined by dominating games in possession, a modern pressing system and a clear tactical approach.
"Ruben believes in high press attacking football with quick transitions that enable greater goal scoring. His philosophy aligns perfectly with our vision, while his leadership qualities and track record in developing players stood out to us. We believe in Ruben and are excited to welcome him to the Club."
Milan had parted company with Allegri after their fifth‑place finish failed to secure Champions League football. New Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola had been considered by the Italian side before his move to Merseyside from Bournemouth, as was Oliver Glasner who left Crystal Palace at the end of last season.
But their chosen man proved to be Amorim, who was initially appointed by United from Sporting Clube de Portugal in November 2024 and went on to oversee the club's worst season in 51 years. He also suffered defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final last year.
In the Premier League, the Lisbon‑born manager recorded the worst win ratio (32 per cent) and the worst goals conceded rate (1.53 per game). His side also produced a clean‑sheet rate of just 15 per cent - the lowest of any United manager in history.
The final straw for Amorim came when he publicly called out the club's decision‑makers, suggesting they should focus on their jobs following the 1‑1 draw with Leeds United at the start of January.
Carrick initially stepped in until the end of the campaign and after impressing, guiding United to a third‑place finish and securing a return to the Champions League, he has now signed a permanent deal until 2028, with an option for a further year.
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