Ruben Amorim Could Return to the Bench Soon in one of the Biggest Teams in Portugal
The former Manchester United manager is reportedly being considered to take over at Benfica following José Mourinho’s poor results.
Ruben Amorim’s departure from Manchester United marked the unexpected end of a brief and turbulent chapter in England. After just over a year at the helm, the Portuguese tactician was phased out of the project this past January. However, his period of unemployment might be shorter than anticipated, with a return to his homeland—and a controversial destination—looming on the horizon.
Benfica Emerges as the Prime Destination
According to reports from Portugal, Amorim has surfaced as the leading candidate to take over the Benfica dugout should the club decide to pull the trigger on a managerial change.
His potential appointment would send shockwaves through the Primeira Liga. While Amorim built his elite reputation at Sporting CP—Benfica’s bitter cross-town rivals—his stock remains incredibly high in Portugal despite his struggles to meet the gargantuan expectations at Old Trafford. At 41, he is still viewed as one of the most tactically astute minds in the game.
The Mourinho Uncertainty
The rumors of Amorim’s arrival are inextricably linked to the current situation under José Mourinho. "The Special One" made a high-profile return to the Eagles this season, but the magic has yet to materialize. Benfica currently finds itself chasing its main rivals in the standings, leading to growing whispers of discontent within the board of directors.
In this high-pressure environment, insiders suggest Amorim is the most "logical" successor. Journalist Luis Rocha Rodrigues analyzed the situation:
"If Benfica opts for what I consider 'Plan B'... they have to go for Ruben Amorim. Looking at the market for valid, logical solutions—someone who knows how to win in Portugal and understands the weight of a big club—Ruben Amorim is in pole position."
A Return to His Roots
While a move to Benfica would be viewed as a "betrayal" by Sporting fans, Amorim has a deep, pre-existing connection with the Eagles. During his playing career, he made over 150 appearances for Benfica, meaning he understands the club’s DNA and internal culture better than most.
His proven track record of winning the Portuguese league, combined with his history as a player, makes him an attractive profile to lead a project aimed at reclaiming domestic and European relevance.
If the deal crosses the finish line, Portuguese football will witness one of its most fascinating storylines in years: Amorim returning to Lisbon, but this time, leading the charge from the opposite side of the Great Derby.
