Ruben Amorim takes over at AC Milan in first role since Manchester United exit
The Portuguese was sacked as United head coach in January.
Former Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim has been appointed AC Milan’s new head coach, the Serie A club have announced.
Amorim was sacked as United head coach in January this year after 14 months in charge at Old Trafford.
The Portuguese joins Milan after they finished fifth in Serie A last season, just outside of the Champions League spots.
Amorim faces a quick reunion with United in a friendly on August 15 in Wroclaw, Poland. Milan also face Celtic and Chelsea in pre-season.
Speaking about his appointment, Amorim told the Milan website: “There are ambitions that stay with you throughout your career, and coaching AC Milan has always been one of mine.
“I know exactly what this club means: history, prestige and an extraordinary fanbase around the world. It is a challenge I embrace with pride and enthusiasm, fully aware of what these colours represent.
“I can’t wait to get started and to experience every day the passion that drives AC Milan.”
Amorim began his coaching career with Casa Pia and Braga before becoming head coach of Sporting Lisbon in March 2020.
During his time at Sporting, Amorim gained recognition after winning two Portuguese league titles, two League Cups and one Super Cup and in November 2024 he was appointed to succeed Erik ten Hag on a contract running until 2027.
However, an underwhelming 14 months at Old Trafford saw Amorim oversee a 15th-placed finish in the Premier League during a 2024-25 campaign in which United were defeated by Tottenham in the Europa League final.
He was dismissed at the start of 2026 with the Red Devils sixth in the table – they went on to finish third under successor Michael Carrick.
Amorim now returns to management with Milan, who were beaten 2-1 by Cagliari on the final day of the season to miss out on the top four by one point.
In the aftermath of that campaign, former head coach Massimiliano Allegri was one of four members of staff to leave the club.
Gerry Cardinale, managing partner of Milan’s ownership group RedBird Capital Partners, told the club website: “We have tracked Ruben for years and his Sporting tenure is extremely impressive and reflects the style of play that we are looking for.
“He is one of the most prepared and innovative coaches of the new European generation – young, ambitious, and with a modern footballing identity defined by dominating games in possession, a modern pressing system and a clear tactical approach.
“Ruben believes in high-press attacking football with quick transitions that enable greater goalscoring. His philosophy aligns perfectly with our vision, while his leadership qualities and track record in developing players stood out to us.
“We believe in Ruben and are excited to welcome him to the club.”