AC Milan has secured a verbal agreement with Rúben Amorim to take over as the club's next head coach. The move, confirmed by sources close to the negotiations, could breathe new life into the Serie A side's fortunes while also offering financial relief to Manchester United, the Portuguese coach's current employer.
Verbal agreement in place
Milan's management moved quickly after identifying Amorim as their top candidate to replace the outgoing head coach. The verbal pact, reached earlier this week, still needs to be formalized into a written contract. Club officials are expected to work through the remaining details — including Amorim's compensation package and the release terms with Manchester United — over the coming days.
The 39-year-old has been with Manchester United since November 2024, taking over a squad that had struggled for consistency. His work in England has drawn attention across Europe, and Milan's pursuit signals a clear intention to build around a younger, tactically flexible coach.
What Amorim brings to Milan
Amorim's arrival is seen as a chance to reset Milan's trajectory. The club has finished mid-table in Serie A for the past two seasons, missing Champions League qualification in the 2024-25 campaign. His approach — high pressing, fluid attacking patterns, and a track record of developing younger players — fits the profile the Rossoneri's hierarchy has been looking for.
At Manchester United, Amorim earned a reputation for getting results without a massive budget, something Milan's ownership views as essential given their own spending constraints. The verbal agreement suggests both sides see a mutual benefit in making the move happen now rather than waiting until the summer.
Financial ripple effect for Manchester United
Manchester United stands to gain from Amorim's departure, though the exact financial terms remain undisclosed. The club is carrying significant debt from the 2023 Glazer family buyout, and Amorim's contract — which still has three years remaining — carries a sizable buyout clause. By agreeing to let him leave for Milan, United could book a lump-sum payment that eases some of that debt burden.
Sources indicated that the fee is expected to be in the region of €15 million, though neither club has confirmed the figure. For United, a quick resolution would also clear the way to appoint a new head coach without the distraction of a prolonged negotiation.
Next steps for all sides
Milan will now set a timeline for Amorim's official unveiling. The team is currently preparing for a mid-table clash against Fiorentina, but the coaching change is unlikely to take effect before the end of the month. Manchester United, meanwhile, has already begun internal discussions about potential replacements, with former assistant coach Carlos Carvalhal emerging as an early candidate.
The paperwork remains the final hurdle. Until the written contract is signed, the verbal agreement is just a promise — but it's a promise both sides appear eager to keep.
