Amorim's secret ingredient that could help the 'poet' return success to Man Utd

Ruben Amorim started from humble beginnings as a player before catching the eye of clubs around Europe and becoming Man Utd manager.

Cristiano Ronaldo called him 'the poet' for his gift for speaking but it has been his determination which has helped him all the way to the top.

Originally from Lisbon, Amorim was released by his hometown club Benfica in his teens. His friend Bruno Simao, who had moved to Belenenses, attempted to reunite with Amorim for a trial game at the club.

Amorim played the trial game despite an injured arm and managed to secure his spot, marking the start of his career as a clever midfielder.

Amorim's resilience and drive have been crucial in his journey to becoming the head coach at Old Trafford. His meteoric rise speaks of his character – someone who faced setbacks head-on and always sought to improve.

At Belenenses, Amorim earned a reputation as an intelligent player. After more than 100 league and cup appearances, he signed with Benfica, the club that had earlier rejected him.

Amorim played more than 90 games for Benfica over nine years and also represented Portugal where he became friends with Ronaldo.

As Amorim's playing days were winding down, he turned his focus to coaching, absorbing information like a sponge.

His commitment and passion earned him an internship at Man Utd, beginning the path that would lead him back to the club as head coach.

Amorim spent a week at Utd's Carrington training ground where he followed Jose Mourinho's approach closely for a week.

In Lisbon, Amorim started as a coaching intern at Casa Pia. Under Amorim's guidance, the club achieved promotion on a limited budget. He was appreciated by the players for nurturing close relationships and instilling in them a desire to win, always.

In March 2020, Amorim took charge of Sporting and within 14 months won the club its first league title in 19 years.

This track record, coupled with the warm reception from fans, solidified his reputation as a top-notch coach worthy of leading any club.

His successful tenure at Sporting culminated in him being appointed as Manchester United's head coach.

Despite concerns about his lack of experience outside Portugal, many close to Amorim are convinced he can succeed at United due to his tactical knowledge, mixing ideas drawn from observing top coaches.

The football world awaits the magic Amorim could bring with the combination of steely determination and empathy with players.

He has a distinct approach to Mourinho, though, despite learning from him and he is not a showman looking to attract the attention of the press.

Instead he does his work in the background and tries to give the credit to the players.