Amorim Takes AC Milan Job, Plans to Use 5-Back System with 7 Players Set to Leave
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Ruben Amorim, the 41-year-old Portuguese coach who previously managed Manchester United, has taken over as AC Milan's new head coach and is expected to implement his trademark 5-back defensive system at the Italian club. Despite offering an apology to Manchester United fans for his poor performance, Amorim appears undeterred in continuing the tactical approach that drew criticism in the English Premier League. The former Sporting Lisbon manager has reportedly informed Milan executives of his plans to move on from seven squad members, including several players with Premier League connections.
Key Points
- Amorim's appointment at AC Milan comes after his January 2025 dismissal from Manchester United, where he recorded a 32% win rate and the worst defensive statistics for any Red Devils manager in the Premier League era
- The Portuguese coach will persist with his 5-defender system at Milan, a tactical choice that faced heavy criticism from British media during his time at Old Trafford
- Seven players are expected to leave Milan, including Fikayo Tomori, Christopher Nkunku, Youssouf Fofana, David Odogu, Pervis Estupinan, Santiago Gimenez and goalkeeper Philip Terracciano
- Some departing players have already attracted interest from other clubs: Tomori from Coventry City (managed by Frank Lampard), Fofana from Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest and Villarreal
- Forward Rafael Leao may leave Milan for Galatasaray or Leeds United, while Amorim prepares for what he believes will be an even tougher challenge than Manchester United
Why It Matters
This appointment signals AC Milan's willingness to embrace a high-risk tactical philosophy that prioritizes system over individual player characteristics. For Manchester United, the friendly match provided closure as seven Red Devils players, including captain Bruno Fernandes and Luke Shaw, approached Amorim after the game to maintain amicable relations, suggesting the departure was more about style conflicts than personal grievances.
This appointment signals AC Milan's willingness to embrace a high-risk tactical philosophy that prioritizes system over individual player characteristics. For Manchester United, the friendly match provided closure as seven Red Devils players, including captain Bruno Fernandes and Luke Shaw, approached Amorim after the game to maintain amicable relations, suggesting the departure was more about style conflicts than personal grievances.