Why Manchester United Are Pursuing Ruben Amorim: A Game-Changer for the Club

Reviving the Big Three: Sporting CP, Porto, and Benfica

In the world of Portuguese football, discussions often circle around 'Os Tres Grandes' or the Big Three: Sporting CP, FC Porto, and SL Benfica. These clubs have long been the cornerstones of football in Portugal. However, in recent years, the focus has shifted primarily towards a Big Two.

Historical Dominance and Disparities

Sporting CP experienced a golden era in the middle of the 20th century, clinching 10 league titles between 1941 and 1958. Sadly, the 1990s proved disastrous for the club, with a complete drought that saw them win no titles at all, as Porto and Benfica dominated the league. This era of lack of success extended into the 21st century, with Sporting often overshadowed by their illustrious competitors.

Insider Turmoil and Fan Violence

Sporting's struggles were not limited to on-field performance. The atmosphere within the club soured considerably, culminating in a shocking incident in 2018 when a faction of masked supporters invaded the team's training compound. This violent episode left several players feeling insecure, prompting seven players, including notable internationals Rui Patricio and William Carvalho, to terminate their contracts. Additionally, club president Bruno de Carvalho faced a significant backlash from members, resulting in his ousting.

A Turnaround under Ruben Amorim

Yet, the tides turned remarkably. Just three years after the harrowing 2018 event, Sporting CP ended the prolonged dominance of their rivals, lifting the league title in 2021. The man behind this remarkable turnaround was Ruben Amorim. His impact on the club has been nothing short of transformative.

Amorim’s Successes

• Champions League Knockout Stages: Amorim led the team to the knockout stages of the Champions League for the first time in 11 years.
• Europa League Quarter-Finals: Following their Champions League success, Sporting reached the quarter-finals of the Europa League.
• Title Defense: In the most recent season, Amorim guided Sporting to their 20th league title, clinching it with two games to spare.

Current Performance and Ambitions

This season, Sporting CP has continued to impress, winning all nine of their league matches and gathering seven points in their three Champions League outings. Their resurgence has reinvigorated the concept of the Big Three in Portuguese football, placing Sporting back to its rightful standing as a formidable force.

Manchester United’s Interest: A New Chapter for Amorim?

Given his extensive accomplishments thus far, it is no surprise that Manchester United has turned to Ruben Amorim to potentially replace their current head coach, Erik ten Hag. The question remains: will Amorim succeed in a high-pressure role at a club with lofty expectations, where many prestigious coaches have stumbled before him?

Conclusion

Ruben Amorim’s journey at Sporting CP has transformed not just the club, but also the landscape of Portuguese football. With renewed vigor and a championship mentality, Sporting CP has become a competitive giant once again. Their future looks bright, and football enthusiasts eagerly await how Amorim will fare in a potential new chapter at Manchester United.

Meta Description: Explore how Ruben Amorim revitalized Sporting CP, leading them back into prominence in Portuguese football while facing new challenges at Manchester United. Read more about the Big Three's evolution in this engaging article.