Ruben Amorim has reaffirmed his commitment to Manchester United following renewed speculation linking him with a return to Portuguese football. Speaking to A Bola after United’s vital 2-1 win over Chelsea at Old Trafford, the 40-year-old head coach declared that Manchester will remain his “only club” despite his admiration for Jose Mourinho, who was appointed Benfica manager last week.
The win over Chelsea came in challenging circumstances. A torrential downpour, a first-half red card for Robert Sánchez, and a controversial second yellow card for Casemiro left United under immense pressure. Yet Amorim’s side held firm to secure three much-needed points, a result that eased immediate doubts over his position following a difficult run of form.
In Portugal, all eyes remain on Mourinho’s sensational Benfica return. The former Manchester United and Chelsea boss is back in Lisbon 23 years after his managerial career first took flight at the Estádio da Luz. Naturally, Amorim was asked for his reaction, given his status as one of Mourinho’s managerial heirs in Portuguese football.
Amorim: “Manchester is my only club”
The United manager made clear that while Mourinho’s move is a major moment for Portuguese football, it will not distract him from his responsibilities at Old Trafford.
“He’s the best Portuguese manager, and that won’t change. He’s always been a very special person in our football, but also in the world, and he opened all the doors for us. I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for Jose Mourinho. But that’s the way it is, and we’ll be here, watching to see what happens, but focused only on Manchester, and that will be my only club.” — Ruben Amorim, A Bola
Amorim’s insistence on loyalty to United comes at a crucial juncture. While his tenure has been under scrutiny, the win against Chelsea has restored belief inside the dressing room. The Portuguese coach is also eager to keep the focus on United’s Premier League campaign rather than the noise surrounding Mourinho’s Benfica appointment.
United’s season on a knife-edge
United’s victory on Sunday was their first in three matches, following defeats in the Champions League against Bayern Munich and in the league against Fulham. Sitting mid-table after five games, Amorim knows consistency must be found quickly, especially with tough fixtures ahead.
The Portuguese coach has already shown tactical adaptability, deploying Luke Shaw as a left-sided centre-back and reshuffling his midfield to cope with Casemiro’s absence. But the pressure remains: United are expected to challenge for the top four, and any further slip-ups could reignite speculation about his future.
| Stat (2025/26) | Manchester United |
|---|---|
| Premier League games | 5 |
| Wins | 2 |
| Draws | 1 |
| Losses | 2 |
| Goals scored | 6 |
| Goals conceded | 7 |
source: sofascore match data – 21 September 2025
The numbers underline why Amorim is under pressure: United are yet to find defensive stability and remain inconsistent in attack, despite flashes of quality from Marcus Rashford and new signing João Neves.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Amorim’s comments were designed to steady the ship. “By emphasising Manchester as his ‘only club,’ Amorim is sending a clear message of loyalty to the board and the fans. The timing matters: Mourinho’s return to Benfica inevitably sparked rumours, but Amorim has cut them off quickly. Now he must back up those words with results, because sentiment alone won’t save him if the league form falters.”
Key insights
- Ruben Amorim insists Manchester United is his “only club” amid Mourinho’s Benfica return.
- He praised Mourinho as the greatest Portuguese manager, saying he “opened doors” for others.
- United’s 2-1 win over Chelsea eased pressure after back-to-back defeats.
- Casemiro’s suspension and defensive issues remain a challenge.
- Mourinho’s Benfica appointment is dominating Portuguese headlines but Amorim stays focused on United.
What’s next for Manchester United?
United now prepare for a clash with Brentford on Saturday, 27 September. Amorim’s side will need to maintain momentum from the Chelsea win if they are to climb the table.
The Benfica story will continue to dominate in Portugal, but Amorim’s future will be judged entirely on United’s results. If the “only club” message is to carry weight, the team must turn words into consistency on the pitch.
👉 Do you believe Ruben Amorim can steer Manchester United back into the top four this season, or will pressure build again before Christmas?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 22 Sep 2025 11:08
He will get them on track
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