Ruben Amorim may not kick off his managerial stint at Manchester United on Monday as anticipated, with the Portuguese tactician caught up in work permit red tape, according to reports. After overseeing his last match for Sporting Lisbon against Braga on Sunday evening, the eagerness to dive into his responsibilities in Manchester cannot be understated.
Nevertheless, the 39-year-old newcomer is yet to secure a work visa necessary to commence his role with the Red Devils, casting a shadow of uncertainty over his inaugural training session with the team, according to the Daily Star.
Even if the paperwork comes through without a hitch, Amorim will not be greeted by a complete roster due to the bulk of players departing for international obligations. However, some, like Marcus Rashford, will remain in Manchester, left to speculate about when they'll participate in one of Amorim's sessions.
On the back of a comprehensive 3-0 triumph over Leicester City, managed by Steve Cooper, Sunday marked Ruud van Nistelrooy's swansong as United's interim coach. The Dutch icon concluded his stint with an admirable record of three victories from four matches, and in his parting words, he expressed his gratitude for the experience: "It's been a short but amazing period.
"We are in an uncertain position, but we tried to do our jobs and help the club. The way the fans supported me and the team, in difficult moments, it was a special moment.
"To close down this block of games with good results and a good connection, I can't thank them enough. We will learn what the further plan is now."
Club captain Fernandes won't be meeting Amorim immediately but recognises that the Portuguese's arrival will bring numerous changes - yet the goal to return to the pinnacle of English football remains constant. "Ruud van Nistelrooy loves the club, and we wanted to say goodbye as a manager for him properly because he did good things for us," confessed Fernandes.
"It's a new era. A new manager means everything changes, but what hasn't changed is that this club has to get back to where it belongs."
