Ruben Amorim, the current manager of Manchester United, has opened up about the emotional turmoil of leaving Benfica during his playing career. In an interview with BBC Sport on Tuesday, the Portuguese coach described the deep connection he still feels for the Lisbon club, where he spent eight defining years of his life.
A Difficult Goodbye
“Leaving? It was very difficult because it was and still is my club,” Amorim revealed with heartfelt emotion. “It was a tough moment, but looking back now, it was important for my growth. I grew up in a strong family, full of emotions, and I’m a Latin man—I wear my heart on my sleeve,” he added with a laugh.
Amorim emphasized the lessons he learned during his departure from Benfica, which shaped his approach to both life and football. “One of the best things about this job is the ability to connect with people. Even when you’re leading, you can form genuine bonds,” he said, hinting at his managerial style.
Glory in Red
Between 2008 and 2016, Amorim played 154 games for Benfica, scoring six goals and assisting 12 more. His tenure at the Estádio da Luz was marked by significant success, including six League Cups, three Primeira Liga titles, and a Portuguese Cup. Despite a loan spell at Sporting Braga and a stint in Qatar with Al-Wakrah, Benfica remained a pivotal chapter in his career.
“I made so many memories there, and it will always be part of who I am,” he stated.
Turning Down Benfica as a Manager
Surprisingly, Amorim disclosed that he once rejected an opportunity to return to Benfica as a manager before his breakthrough at Sporting Braga’s B team. While he did not delve into the specifics of the offer, it underscores his determination to carve his own path in coaching.
Amorim’s coaching journey has been meteoric. After a successful stint with Sporting CP, where he led the team to a league title, he is now managing one of the world’s biggest clubs, Manchester United. Yet, even on the global stage, his heart seems tethered to Lisbon.
A Latin Legacy
Amorim’s love for Benfica highlights his deep connection to his roots and his passionate nature as a coach. His reflection on those early years serves as a reminder of how personal challenges can forge professional growth.
As he continues to navigate the pressures of the Premier League, Amorim’s career stands as a testament to resilience, loyalty, and the indelible mark Benfica left on his life.