Ruben Amorim, the new Manchester United head coach, has been spotted boarding a private jet to Manchester Airport, seemingly confirming his backroom staff. The 39-year-old was seen at Beja International Airport on Monday morning, with Portuguese TV crews capturing his departure.
Amorim is expected to land in Manchester around 1.45pm, when he will likely head straight to Carrington for the first time since replacing Erik ten Hag.
Alongside him were Carlos Fernandes, Adelio Candido, Paulo Barreira, Emanuel Ferro, and Jorge Vital, all of whom are anticipated to join Amorim's coaching team at Old Trafford after negotiations with Sporting for their release.
There was also speculation that fitness coach Goncalo Alvaro would be joining the M16-bound posse, although he wasn't seen boarding the flight.
Fernandes, who is Amorim's right-hand man, confirmed his own exit from Sporting with an Instagram post on Sunday night following their 4-2 victory over Braga.
"So many moments that I will cherish forever," he penned on Instagram, sharing a montage of memories from his tenure at the club.
"There is no other feeling other than eternal gratitude towards those who helped us create something so special: players for whom there are no words, colleagues who became friends and everyone who always supported us. THANK YOU VERY MUCH."
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
The arrival of three experienced coaches at United could spell trouble for Ruud van Nistelrooy, appointed as one of Ten Hag's aides during a coaching summer shake-up.
He served as interim manager for four matches after his fellow Dutchman's sacking, leading the team to three victories and one draw.
Amorim is poised for a crucial meeting with Van Nistelrooy at Carrington today, where he is widely expected to inform the club legend that his services are no longer required.
Despite lauding the ex-forward's contributions on Sunday evening, Amorim refrained from guaranteeing his future role within the squad, suggesting that Van Nistelrooy's departure might be on the cards.
"About a legend of the club, he did a great job. I have to talk with him, then I will explain everything," Amorim remarked.
Van Nistelrooy looked emotional as he embraced the Old Trafford crowd after Sunday's 3-0 win against Leicester City. Many viewed the gesture as a final farewell.
Shortly after, he explained: "The connection is there. It's what United is about. Being together and getting results. I'm proud of that and thankful to the supporters. It was a beautiful moment.
"To come back to the club, and I've started working, and then doing these four games. All at home, getting some good results and some good goals.
"There are some good bits to build on. To close it down with this, it's special. My dad was here, my son. So it was a fantastic moment."