Ruben Amorim now wants exactly what Erik ten Hag did for Manchester United just before he was dismissed from his role as first-team manager.
Despite a seriously bleak campaign last season, Manchester United can be optimistic heading into the new season.
The signings of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have reignited excitement around Old Trafford, with a sense of optimism building among supporters.
But United are never far away from a crisis, which Ruben Amorim knows all too well despite his short stint at the club. That said, it doesn’t seem to faze the Portuguese.
Ruben Amorim during the match between Manchester United and Newcastle
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Ruben Amorim wants a long-term Manchester United future
Amorim spoke with The Athletic and has stated that he wants to be at Old Trafford for the next 20 years.
“I want to stay, I want to stay 20 [years],” he said. “That is my goal, and I truly believe in that. Something will happen.
“It always does. In some moments, I will be lucky. I had a lot of luck during my career as a manager, and my idea is to stay for many years.
“But again, we know that the results will dictate that. I know that last season I used all the credits, but I’m ready to start fresh.”
This is great to hear from a United fan’s perspective, but it sounds awfully familiar to what his predecessor’s plans were.
Erik ten Hag wanted the same at United before being sacked
Before being sacked, former United manager Erik ten Hag envisioned he’d be at Old Trafford for at least the next decade.
West Ham United FC v Manchester United FC - Premier League
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This was revealed by ex-coach Benni McCarthy, who worked closely with Ten Hag, in March 2025.
“I was given an incredible opportunity to work with one of the biggest and best clubs in the world under the guidance of Erik ten Hag,” McCarthy told BBC Sport.
“I learned utmost professionalism because the manager I worked under was not just a disciplinarian, but he was the best and one of the most unbelievable professionals I’ve ever seen in the game.
“Extremely hard-working, very dedicated, very passionate, he planned on being the Manchester United coach for the next 10 years. That was his vision.”
This, of course, didn’t come to fruition, and Ten Hag was sacked after an abysmal start to the 24/25 season, with Amorim taking his place.
Will the 40-year-old have better luck around Carrington? That remains to be seen – but it’s a massive year for him and his Red Devils side.