Man United fans spot subtle difference between how Ruben Amorim and Erik ten Hag were appointed at Old Trafford… and some are convinced they know why

Eagle-eyed Manchester United supporters have noticed a subtle change in Ruben Amorim ‘s job title when compared to that of Erik ten Hag.

The Red Devils confirmed the highly-rated Portuguese coach as Ten Hag’s replacement on Friday afternoon and announced that he has agreed to become their new head coach on a two-and-a-half year contract. 

Immediately, some United supporters on social media spotted that Ten Hag had been announced as ‘manager’ when the club confirmed his arrival in April 2022. The change indicates difference in their respective roles. 

Indeed, GiveMeSport writer Ben Jacobs claimed that Amorim’s deal does not include a recruitment veto. It is a clear signal of the changing landscape at the club under co-owners Ineos and that hasn’t been lost on the fanbase. 

United fans have noticed a subtle difference in the job roles of Erik ten Hag and Amorim

‘Oh wow they’ve labelled Amorim as ‘head coach’ instead of ‘manager’ Fully aligns with the new INEOS regime.’ One fan wrote on X. 

Another posted: ‘Ten Hag — “Manager”. Amorim — “Head Coach”. Welcome to the INEOS era.’ A third said: ‘Head Coach + no veto. INEOS’ man.’

Earlier this week Mail Sport revealed that Amorim had a notice period within his Sporting Lisbon contract.

Following negotiations United are understood to have paid one million euros on top of the £8.3m release clause to secure an early departure which will allow the new man to use the international break to familiarise himself with his surroundings before his first match in charge, which will be at Ipswich Town on November 24.

In the meantime, caretaker boss Ruud van Nistelrooy will oversee the visits of Chelsea and Leicester City, which sandwich a Europa League home fixture with PAOK.

It remains to be seen whether the club’s Dutch former striker will become part of Amorim’s backroom team.

No deal has yet been struck to bring assistants to Manchester, with talks ongoing.

The Dutchman was unveiled as the new red Devils manager when he joined back in 2022

United’s co-owners Ineos have made wholesale changes at the club since their arrival last year

United are banking on Amorim bringing his golden touch to Old Trafford after four successful years in the Portuguese capital. Under his management, Sporting claimed two top-flight titles, including their first in 19 years. 

Additionally, Amorim led them to two four cups. At Old Trafford he will be reunited with skipper Bruno Fernandes and Manuel Ugarte, who he managed in Portugal.