Former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has emerged as the frontrunner for the vacant AC Milan coaching position after holding discussions with the Italian club, marking a potential return to elite European management just months after his departure from Old Trafford.
Reports on Saturday indicated that Milan have intensified their search for a new head coach and are increasingly convinced that Amorim could be the figure to lead the club back into the UEFA Champions League after a disappointing domestic campaign.
The Portuguese tactician has been without a club since January, when Manchester United dismissed him following a turbulent 14-month spell in charge. Despite his struggles in England, Amorim remains highly regarded across Europe because of his transformative work at Sporting CP, where he won league titles and built one of the continent’s most admired tactical projects.
Sources close to the negotiations say discussions have already taken place between Milan and representatives of the 41-year-old coach, although no formal agreement has been reached.
The club is understood to be evaluating a shortlist that has also included Mauricio Pochettino and Oliver Glasner as it seeks a manager capable of restoring consistency and competitiveness.
Milan’s search follows the departure of Massimiliano Allegri after the Rossoneri failed to secure Champions League qualification. The club’s late-season collapse proved costly, with a promising position in the standings giving way to a disappointing finish that left supporters demanding major changes.
For Amorim, the opportunity would represent a chance to rebuild his reputation after a difficult experience at Manchester United. Appointed amid high expectations in late 2024, he struggled to deliver the desired results and was eventually relieved of his duties in January 2026.
Yet his reputation remains intact in many football circles.
Across Europe, football executives continue to view him as one of the game’s brightest coaching minds, pointing to his achievements at Sporting, where he guided the Lisbon club back to domestic prominence and developed several elite talents.
The possibility of Amorim taking charge at Milan would also add intrigue to the club’s pre-season schedule. AC Milan are due to face Manchester United in a friendly match in Poland in August, potentially setting up an emotional reunion with his former club only months after his exit.
The managerial search comes at a critical moment for the seven-time European champions. Club executives are under pressure to restore stability, strengthen the squad and ensure a swift return to Europe’s premier competition.
While discussions remain ongoing, reports suggest Amorim has moved ahead of several rivals in the race and is now viewed as one of the strongest candidates to occupy the San Siro dugout.
For now, Milan supporters await a final decision, while Amorim considers an opportunity that could redefine the next chapter of his coaching career.
