Amorim named Manchester United head coach

Manchester United's search for a new head coach ended Friday with the appointment of Ruben Amorim, the Premier League club announced.

The Portuguese coach joins from Sporting CP on a three-year contract that includes an option for an additional year. He'll officially join his new club Nov. 11.

Interim Manchester United coach Ruud van Nistelrooy will be in charge for the next three games, including Sunday's Premier League clash against Chelsea. The Dutch coach has been in charge since coach Erik ten Hag was fired Oct. 28.

Manchester United decided to cut ties with Ten Hag after their defeat to West Ham United last weekend. The Red Devils are in 14th place after nine league games.

Sporting CP revealed earlier this week that Manchester United had triggered the €10-million release clause in Amorim's contract.

Amorim's first game in charge of United will be an away match against newly promoted Ipswich on Nov. 24. His first home game is four days later against Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League.

Manchester United didn't announce who'll be on Amorim's coaching staff.

Amorim will be on the touchline for Sporting CP's league match Friday against Estrela. He then faces Premier League champions Manchester City in the Champions League in what will be his penultimate game at Sporting.

Manchester United describe Amorim as "one of the most exciting and highly rated young coaches in European football." He won Portugal's Primeira Liga title with Sporting CP in 2021 and last season.

The 39-year-old becomes the sixth permanent coach since legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.