Ruben Amorim makes headlines as Sporting hammers Manchester City

Viktor Gyokeres’s stunning hat-trick led Sporting Lisbon to a remarkable 4-1 victory over Manchester City in the Champions League, a result that showcased the tactical brilliance of their manager, Ruben Amorim. The performance was a striking reminder of why Manchester United had been so eager to bring Amorim to Old Trafford. The 39-year-old manager, who has earned a reputation as one of Europe’s brightest young coaching talents, guided Sporting to a dominant win by exploiting the defensive vulnerabilities of an injury-hit City side. Gyokeres’s clinical finishing put the game beyond City’s reach, with Sporting taking full advantage of their opponent’s defensive frailties.

Amorim, who has been in charge at Sporting Lisbon since 2020, has been highly praised for his innovative tactics and leadership. His success with the Portuguese side, including winning multiple domestic trophies, has made him a coveted figure in European football. It was no surprise when Manchester United approached him to replace Erik ten Hag, who was sacked following a string of disappointing results. Amorim has accepted United's offer and is set to officially take charge of the Premier League club on November 11. In this victory over City, Amorim gave United fans a tantalizing glimpse of the potential impact he could have at Old Trafford. His ability to outmaneuver one of the best sides in Europe with a team missing key players has only strengthened his reputation as a future managerial star.

Phil Foden gave Manchester City an early lead at the José Alvalade Stadium, but the visitors squandered several chances to extend their advantage. Sporting Lisbon made them pay for their missed opportunities. Viktor Gyökeres equalized before halftime, and after the break, Maximiliano Araujo gave Sporting the lead. Gyökeres then capped a stunning comeback with two penalty goals, securing a memorable 4-1 victory.

City had their own chances to mount a comeback in the second half, but Erling Haaland’s penalty hit the crossbar, denying them a lifeline. Sporting’s resilience and clinical finishing exposed City’s defensive weaknesses, particularly in the absence of key players.

After the match, Ruben Amorim hinted that Manchester United fans might start to see him as "the new Alex Ferguson" if he could replicate this kind of performance at Old Trafford. Amorim, soon to take charge of United after agreeing to replace Erik ten Hag, has proven his tactical prowess with Sporting, and his success against City only added to the growing excitement surrounding his appointment. The victory showcased his ability to inspire his team against top opposition, leaving a strong impression on both Sporting fans and those at United.

After the turbulent end to Erik ten Hag’s tenure, with Manchester United languishing in the bottom half of the Premier League table, Ruben Amorim faces a monumental task to restore the club to its former glory. While comparisons with United’s legendary former manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, should be put on hold for now, Amorim’s spirited victory with Sporting Lisbon against Manchester City has certainly excited United fans. The 39-year-old, who led Sporting to two Portuguese titles in four years, will take charge of his first match with United on November 24 against Ipswich, as he begins the task of reviving the club’s fortunes.

On December 15, Amorim will face Pep Guardiola in his first Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium, where Guardiola will be seeking revenge. However, the City boss has his own problems to address first. Guardiola’s side has been in poor form, suffering an unexpected three-game losing streak, including their first league defeat of the season against Bournemouth. With key players such as Rodri, Jack Grealish, Ruben Dias, John Stones, and Oscar Bobb sidelined, City have lost their momentum. Although their Champions League defeat to Sporting isn’t fatal to their European hopes, Guardiola will be desperate for a strong response when City face Brighton on Saturday.