Sporting CP coach, Ruben Amorim, has denied rumors that he will coach Liverpool to replace Juergen Klopp. Some time ago, Amorim was linked with the top position of the coaching bench at the top of the Premier League squad. Speculation regarding Amorim’s future increased when Xabi Alonso, who was also reportedly replacing Klopp, confirmed that he would stay longer at his club, Bayer Leverkusen.
Even though the rumors about his future are getting louder, Amorim has firmly stated his commitment to Sporting CP. “I am the manager of Sporting, and that’s it,” Amorim stressed. The 39 year old coach emphasized that he and his squad were focused on achieving victory. “The players and I share the same desire to win, and that’s what I’m focused on,” explained Amorim.
Furthermore, Amorim also mocked reports regarding Sporting having prepared a replacement for him. “The only thing that upsets me is that they already have a replacement for me,” Amorim said jokingly. Amorim also indirectly dismissed the news after previously Bayern Munich’s assistant coach, Anthony Barry, was rumored to be replacing his coaching position.
Amorim has coached Sporting for four years. Amorim’s fluid and attacking playing style has succeeded in attracting the attention of many clubs. He has won one Portuguese League title and two trophies with Sporting CP.
The results resemble to one that saw Klopp end a 30-year wait for a Liverpool title. Given those memories are still relatively fresh at Anfield, it further highlights the rise of a coach who is now the leading candidate to take over the Reds later this year.
Nonetheless, there is speculation among some figures in Portuguese football circles about Amorim’s ability to handle a higher level of profile among the playing squad at Liverpool. For some, the egos at a club the size of the Reds is not something the Sporting boss has experience of and it’s not prospect he would care to take on.
“He doesn’t like stars,” admits one. “He makes sure that the whole squad feels they have equal rights and a place in the team.” Sporting supporter Antonio adds: “We haven’t had those superstar personalities in the locker room, and he prioritises team players. Too much ego doesn’t sit well with him.”
On the other hand, Amorim has been known as the “Special Two” referring to his similar prowess to Jose Mourinho. However, Amorim rejected the comparison as absurd. “It doesn’t make sense, there is no comparison between me and the great Jose Mourinho,” said Amorim.
