Ruben Amorim is reportedly one of Manchester City’s top choices to succeed Pep Guardiola next summer, as speculation grows around who will take the reins at the Etihad Stadium if Guardiola leaves at the end of his contract.
The rumors gained momentum with the news that Hugo Viana, currently Sporting Clube de Portugal’s sporting director, will replace Txiki Begiristain as City’s director of football next summer. Given Viana’s long-standing professional relationship with Amorim at Sporting, many believe he could bring the Portuguese coach with him to Manchester.
Guardiola, now in the final year of his contract, has reportedly been approached by the FA regarding the England managerial role. While the 53-year-old was unable to commit, it’s clear City are planning for a future without their iconic boss. According to The Guardian, Amorim ranks high on City’s shortlist of potential replacements.
Amorim, a highly-regarded manager, had previously been linked with Premier League clubs like West Ham and Liverpool, and his tactical acumen has caught the attention of top European sides. However, in a press conference, Amorim downplayed the rumors, addressing the speculation head-on when asked about the possibility of joining City under Viana.
“You’re talking about Hugo Viana going to City, but me? It’s all just rumors,” Amorim told Record. “Viana will always be a great friend, but our professional paths will be different. One thing doesn’t lead to another.”
He emphasized that he and Viana had not discussed any move to Manchester, stating, “We haven’t spoken about it. Viana’s path is Viana’s, and mine is mine. Our friendship will continue, but professionally, we are on separate journeys.”
When questioned about his readiness to manage a club like Manchester City, Amorim remained focused on his current responsibilities at Sporting. “I feel prepared to keep working at Sporting. This year, I have even more responsibility because the expectations for Sporting have risen.”
Amorim also reassured Sporting fans that Viana’s upcoming departure would not disrupt the club. “Nothing has changed at Sporting except for the fact that Viana will leave at the end of the season,” he explained. “He remains the sporting director until then, and the focus is still on the team and winning games.”
He went on to address any potential concerns regarding Viana’s transition to Manchester City. “When we play City, Viana won’t be allowed in the dressing room—I’ll make sure of that to avoid conflicts,” he joked. “But Viana wants us to win, just like we all do. We’re in the same boat, and that’s what matters.”
For now, Amorim is committed to Sporting, but with rumors swirling and his name frequently popping up in connection to top clubs, it will be interesting to see where his journey takes him next.
