Ruben Amorim, the new Manchester United manager, has reportedly urged the club’s board to re-sign former academy product Angel Gomes. Amorim is keen on the midfielder’s return as part of his vision to rejuvenate the struggling Premier League side. The Portuguese coach replaced Erik ten Hag, who was dismissed after managing only three wins in United’s opening nine league matches. Amorim now faces the challenge of improving a side languishing in 13th place, despite interim boss Ruud van Nistelrooy managing to secure four additional points before his arrival.
Amorim’s first game in charge is set to take place against newly-promoted Ipswich Town at Portman Road. Ipswich, led by Kieran McKenna, have shown promise this season and recently claimed a 2-1 victory over Tottenham. Amorim is expected to bring his preferred 3-4-3 system, a formation that proved successful during his time at Sporting Lisbon, but it may take time to fully integrate his ideas due to the club’s busy winter schedule. While the January transfer window offers an opportunity to bolster the squad, it is anticipated that significant signings will only occur during the summer.
One of Amorim’s key priorities appears to be the re-signing of Angel Gomes, who left Manchester United in 2020 to join Lille. Now a pivotal player for the French side, Gomes has developed into a highly creative and technically gifted midfielder, capable of excelling in advanced roles or wide positions. Reports suggest that United’s transfer team, including Dan Ashworth and Jason Wilcox, share Amorim’s enthusiasm for the 24-year-old. They see Gomes as a vital component of the new manager’s plans to restore the club’s fortunes.
Gomes has expressed his fondness for Manchester United, referring to the club as having a “sentimental soft spot” in his heart, hinting at a willingness to return. His openness to a reunion could give United an advantage over Tottenham, who are also reportedly interested in the England international. Securing Gomes on a free transfer next summer would be a financially sound move for the club, particularly as they look to rebuild under Amorim’s leadership.
The potential acquisition of Gomes aligns with United’s desire to address key issues, such as creativity and midfield cohesion, which have hindered their performance this season. Bringing back an academy graduate who has thrived abroad would symbolize a return to their roots and could mark the beginning of a new, promising era under Amorim.