Ruben Amorim addressed Old Trafford after Sunday's game (Image: Manchester United via Getty Imag)

Ruben Amorim's departure from Sporting CP was an emotional watershed moment, as players were left in tears over his exit. Between 2020 and 2024, Amorim had a glorious run at the helm of the Primeira Liga club, bagging three league titles along with three domestic cups, until Manchester United shelled out £11million to secure his services along with his coaching team in November.

Despite enduring a challenging season with United, only clinching eight Premier League wins following Erik ten Hag's tenure and languishing at a historic low of 15th place, the bond Amorim builds with his players is undeniable. And the reaction of his former Sporting CP squad speaks volumes about their respect for him. Eduardo Quaresma, for instance, told Abola of tears when Amorim parted ways with the club.

He said: "I was sad, we had a very good relationship with the manager, I feel sad for him, he deserves everything good. I don't believe it. There were times when I didn't believe it would happen.

"I don't know if I can say it. We had a meeting and he said to us, 'Guys, I don't know anything, trust me.' The next game, the guy said he was leaving, but he stayed for another four games. All I could think was, 'Go away'. I cried a lot. I think I cried the most."

Quaresma was not the only player overcome with emotion as Amorim bid farewell to the European stalwarts, with Pedro Goncalves also speaking fondly of his former manager. The attacking midfielder said: "I wouldn't be here today [without him].

Ruben Amorim had a unique relationship with his Sporting CP players (Image: Getty Images)

"We had a very strong bond, both professionally and personally. He liked my wife very much and was concerned about my well-being, both on the field and in my family life. He knew when players were happy or sad, and he knew exactly what to say. We were sad.

"I started crying because I really liked him, and I was sad. I never told him not to go; I wished him good luck. The players understood. He was like a father to us. We were sad, but we understood. I wish him the best of luck."

Maximiliano Araujo, who joined Sporting under Amorim's guidance last summer, echoed Goncalves' sentiments. Speaking to Abola, Araujo spoke of disappointment to see the tactician leave. He said: "It was normal.

Sporting CP won the league this season (Image: Getty Images)

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

"I noticed it, yes, in many of my team-mates, because it was normal. That's what I'm telling you. When you have a really good coach like that, you don't want him to leave. When so many players cry... I have no doubt that many players felt a lot of affection for him. And, yes, it was a bit difficult. As I say... it was normal, understandable, given all the affection the players felt for him."

Amorim's departure from Sporting CP led to Joao Pereira stepping in provisionally, before Rui Borges took over in December. Borges impressively steered the team to secure the Taca de Portugal trophy and clinched the Liga Portugal title, pipping rivals Benfica by a mere two points.

Meanwhile, Amorim confronted his subpar first season at Old Trafford on Sunday. Despite managing to clinch a 2-0 victory against Aston Villa in a seasonal closer on home soil - with goals courtesy of Amad and Christian Eriksen - the win was nothing more than a silver lining in an otherwise lamentable campaign.

Ruben Amorim addressed Old Trafford after Sunday's game (Image: Manchester United via Getty Imag)

Trending

In a heartfelt message to supporters after the game, Amorim said: "First of all, I want to apologise for this season. I know you are really disappointed with me, and really disappointed with the team. Second thing, I want to say thank you. We are very grateful for your support during the season, and I know that was really hard.

"I know it was really hard in many ways, but now we have to make a choice or we stay stuck in the past - because this season is in the past. It's over. We fight each other, or we stick together and move forward. Six months ago, in my first three games in charge with two victories and one draw, I said to you, 'The storm is coming.'

"Today, after this disaster season, I want to tell you, the good days are coming. If there is one club in the world that proved in the past, that can overcome any situation, any disaster, it's our club. It's Manchester United Football Club. Now I want to say sorry also to my players. Sometimes I was not fair, but I tried always to be honest to you guys. Thank you very much, see you next season."