Roderick Miranda has expressed his surprise at seeing his former Benfica teammate, Ruben Amorim, take on the role of Manchester United manager. Miranda, who played alongside Amorim during their time in Benfica’s academy, admitted that he never expected the Portuguese coach to end up in such a high-profile managerial position.
Miranda recalled Amorim as a lively presence in the dressing room, known for his humor and ability to keep spirits high. He was always the one to bring energy and laughter to the team, making it difficult for his former teammates to imagine him in a serious managerial role. However, despite his playful personality, Amorim demonstrated intelligence and versatility as a player, qualities that may have contributed to his success as a coach.
“I never thought he’d become a coach! Not because of his football skills or intelligence, but because he was the changing room clown. He had a really fun personality and was always doing something to make people laugh,” Miranda stated.
His surprise was further heightened when he learned that Amorim had been appointed to manage one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League. The former Benfica defender explained that Amorim’s deep understanding of football, developed through his ability to play in multiple positions, might be the reason behind his managerial success.
“When I heard he started as a coach, I was a little bit surprised and wondered how the guy I played with could become so serious! But he was a very intelligent player. He could play in many different positions, so maybe that’s why he’s a brilliant coach because he has such a great understanding of the game.”
Amorim enjoyed a successful playing career as a midfielder, representing clubs such as Belenenses, Benfica, Braga, and Qatari side Al-Wakrah. He also earned 14 caps for Portugal between 2010 and 2014.
His transition into management has been remarkable, with his biggest achievement coming at Sporting Lisbon, where he ended the club’s 19-year league title drought. This success propelled him into the spotlight and ultimately led to his appointment at Manchester United in November 2024.
Despite the high expectations surrounding his arrival at Old Trafford, Amorim has faced significant challenges in his early tenure. Manchester United currently sit 13th in the Premier League standings, far below their usual position among the league’s elite. Fans and analysts alike have been questioning whether he will be able to turn things around and restore the club to its former glory.
While his former teammate Miranda was initially skeptical about Amorim’s managerial future, he now acknowledges the qualities that have helped him reach this level. The intelligence, adaptability, and understanding of the game that Amorim displayed as a player have translated into his coaching career, making him a compelling figure in modern football management.
As he continues his journey with Manchester United, Amorim will need to rely on those same qualities to navigate the challenges ahead and prove that he is the right man to lead the club back to success.
