Ruben Amorim’s gesture to Carrick, mega pay-off and spotted in Middle East | Football | Sport

Almost eight weeks have elapsed since Ruben Amorim was sacked as Manchester United manager. His dismissal came swiftly after delivering incendiary post-match remarks following a Premier League stalemate against Leeds United. Since then, Michael Carrick has presided over a remarkable turnaround in results, with 16 points secured from 18 available providing United with a genuine opportunity to clinch a top-four spot. But what’s become of his predecessor?

A £10million compensation package means Amorim isn’t under any pressure to rush back into management. Despite failing to replicate his achievements in English football, he likely still considers his reputation intact following his triumphs with Sporting CP. The Portuguese tactician may seek a return to the dugout during the summer months, whether with a Premier League side or a club from another division. He hasn’t been idle, however, with the 41-year-old seen in both the UK and Qatar following his departure.

Swiftness of exit

Amorim’s sacking unfolded remarkably quickly. His outburst at the club after that Leeds draw resulted in his dismissal within 24 hours.

“With Manchester United sitting sixth in the Premier League, the club’s leadership has reluctantly made the decision that it is the right time to make a change,” the club said in a statement.

“This will give the team the best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish.”

Later on the day of his dismissal, the Portuguese boss was photographed with his wife Maria in Cheshire.

He seemed in high spirits whilst engaging with photographers, with the day’s developments not dampening his outward demeanour.

Gesture to Carrick

More than six weeks following his departure from Old Trafford, Amorim hasn’t publicly addressed his exit from the United position.

This appears to be no accident, with reports suggesting he has deliberately chosen this approach as a mark of respect towards successor Carrick.

EXPRESS SPORT ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page.

It’s been reported that the former Sporting manager will hold off until the summer before speaking out. He is understood to be unwilling to do anything which might undermine the progress United have achieved since Carrick assumed control.

Monday’s triumph at Everton saw United conclude the gameweek in fourth position, three points ahead of their nearest rivals.

Fifth place may still prove sufficient for Champions League qualification but that hinges on how well Premier League sides fare across UEFA competitions this season.

Spotted in Qatar

Amorim may not have made his football comeback yet, but he was recently spotted indulging in a different sport. He was sighted in Qatar this month, enjoying a tennis match between Carlos Alcaraz and Karen Khachanov.

There’s no suggestion that he has any ties to the two players, and a transfer to a Qatari club hasn’t been mooted at this point. Instead, a return to Portugal could be on the cards for him.

Amorim has been associated with the Benfica managerial role, contingent on the future of current boss Jose Mourinho. He spent several years at the Lisbon-based club during his playing days, amassing over 150 appearances across all competitions.

Ensure our latest sport headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as a Preferred Source in your Google search settings.