Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has firmly denied ever holding talks with Manchester City about replacing Pep Guardiola, insisting Old Trafford was always his sole ambition.
Amorim built his reputation as one of Europe’s most exciting young coaches during his time at Sporting Lisbon, before United moved swiftly to appoint him following Erik ten Hag’s dismissal in October.
Softfootball understands speculation had briefly linked Amorim with City amid uncertainty over Guardiola’s future at the club.
Asked directly whether he’d ever discussed the possibility of joining City, Amorim was unequivocal. He said:
Never. Never had and this was my only option. When Manchester United talked to me, I had no doubts because I had already something in my mind that it could be a possibility.
Guardiola has since ended speculation over his own future by signing a contract extension until 2027, doing so during what has become his worst run of form since taking charge of City back in 2016, having won just once in his last ten matches across all competitions.
