Ruben Amorim's Man Utd exit path emerges with feelings on new job clear

Ruben Amorim is set for crucial discussions about his future at Old Trafford. However, should his tenure with the Red Devils come to an abrupt end, he may find a lifeline with Benfica, his former club who are reportedly keeping a close eye on developments.

Amorim's stint at United reached a new nadir on Wednesday night when the team was shockingly ousted from the Carabao Cup by League Two side Grimsby Town in a penalty shootout. The former Sporting Lisbon boss is approaching his one-year anniversary at the helm, but it has been a tumultuous period thus far.

According to The Telegraph, plans are underway for talks aimed at salvaging the team from its current predicament. However, Amorim himself has expressed doubts over his ability to spearhead this revival, having struggled to find solutions so far.

Should Amorim depart - either of his own volition or if he is dismissed - he could be on Benfica's radar. Having spent several years playing for the Portuguese giants, and with presidential candidate Joao Noronha Lopes being a known admirer, a return could be on the cards.

Lopes, who recently announced that his campaign would be supported by former Benfica and Portugal striker Nuno Gomes - a close friend of Amorim - could potentially pave the way for his return.

Despite the challenges at United, Amorim's reputation in Portugal remains intact. He began his managerial career impressively with Braga before moving to Sporting Lisbon, where he transformed them into the dominant force in Portuguese football, ending their 19-year wait for a league title and adding further honours to their trophy cabinet.

Lopes has openly expressed his respect for Amorim when speaking to Record, stating: "He's an excellent coach, under contract with Manchester United. I won't destabilise Benfica. They have a very important match ahead of them."

Manchester United are at a crossroads with Amorim, having invested over £200million in new signings tailored to his system. Despite his unwavering commitment to his tactics, the anticipated results have yet to materialise.

It's been nearly a year since Ineos made the bold move to dismiss Erik ten Hag, shortly after offering him a new contract and significant funds for transfers, despite the looming red flags. Another misfire in the managerial department could lead to serious doubts about their decision-making prowess.