‘I Want to Stay 20 Years’ - Ruben Amorim Keen to Emulate Sir Alex Ferguson at Manchester United

Manchester United manager, Ruben Amorim, has expressed his desire for a lengthy tenure at Old Trafford, stating his ambition to remain at the helm for "20 years."

He believes strongly in the club's potential and is confident that they will reclaim both domestic and European titles.

Entering his first full season after a challenging start following his November appointment, Amorim acknowledges the historical brevity of managerial reigns at United since Sir Alex Ferguson. However, the Portuguese coach, contracted until 2027 with an option for an additional year, is determined to buck that trend.

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"I want to stay, I want to stay 20 [years]," said Amorim, as quoted by ESPN. "That is my goal and I truly believe in that. Something will happen. It always does. In some moments I will be lucky. I had a lot of luck during my career as a manager and my idea is to stay for many years. But again we know that the results will dictate that. I know that last season I used all the credits but I'm ready to start fresh."

Amorim is tasked with rebuilding after United's disappointing 15th-place finish last season, their worst league performance in over half a century. The club last won the Premier League in 2013 under Ferguson and the Champions League in 2008. Despite this drought, Amorim remains convinced that success will return to Old Trafford.

"I have no doubts," Amorim said. "Because there are some things that you cannot buy and this club has. The pedigree, the history, the fans. We have that. I think that is clear. Then the money. We have money. We have money without the Champions League. So we can, we'll have money and more money in the future. And we are doing everything.

"You talk with [CEO] Omar [Berrada] and all these guys, they are making all the strategy to have more money in the future. So that will not be a problem. And then I think it's clearly the culture. If we have a different culture, with all that, with all the pedigree, the money, all these things, we can return to our place. And that is clear."

To address dressing room dynamics, Amorim has established a new leadership group. Central to this group is captain Bruno Fernandes, alongside Lisandro Martínez, Harry Maguire, Diogo Dalot, Noussair Mazraoui, and Tom Heaton. This initiative reflects Amorim's focus on cultural change within the club.

"Changing the culture is a club-wide effort, not just the manager's responsibility," Amorim explained. "I have more support this year. We've formed a leadership group; it's not just Bruno or Harry, it's six players responsible for the squad. They handle minor issues, responsibilities I had to deal with personally last year. These small changes are helping the group dynamic."

Amorim has also implemented new rules regarding timekeeping and training intensity to improve the club environment. He emphasizes that these rules are not about treating players like children but about holding them accountable. He uses video footage to illustrate shortcomings and address them directly with the squad.

"We have new rules," he confirmed. "These rules are about treating players like men, but with clear expectations. If training isn't up to par, I have the footage to show it, and I'll do so in front of everyone. I won't just talk; I'll show them exactly what needs to improve."

United are under pressure to post positive results next season after their relegation-like form in 2024-25 and Amorim knows a good start is paramount in 2025-26.