AC Milan have reached an agreement with the Portuguese coach Reuben Amorim to become the new head coach of the club after the departure of Massimiliano Allegri.
The Rossoneri have been searching for a new manager since sacking Allegri on May 25 after the club failed to secure qualification for next season’s UEFA Champions League.
According to reports in Italy, Amorim has emerged as Milan’s favorite candidate after weeks of discussions and assessments involving several coaching options.
The Portuguese coach decided to move to Milan
The former Sporting and Manchester United manager is expected to sign a two-year contract with an option for an additional season.
Reports suggest the deal is worth around €3.5m per season, with additional bonuses linked to trophies and Champions League qualification.
Amorim has been without a club since leaving Manchester United in January and was initially expected to take a break from coaching before Milan’s approach changed his plans.
The 41-year-old is reportedly expected to arrive in Italy soon to finalize the deal and begin preparations for his new role.
A long-standing dream close to reality
Reports in the Italian and Portuguese media suggest Milan’s interest has proved particularly attractive due to Amorim’s long-standing admiration for the club.
In an interview with Portuguese publication Tribuna Expresso in 2017, the former midfielder revealed his fondness for the Rossoneri as he reflected on his childhood footballing inspirations.
“As a child I loved watching Benfica and Milan. I remember watching videos of Milan with Maldini, Baresi, Gullit, Rijkaard and Savicevic,” said Amorim.
“My childhood dreams were to play for Benfica and Milan. I achieved one of them. Now I have to become the coach of the other.”
Amorim reportedly beat off competition from several candidates, including Al Ahli manager Matthias Jaissle, whose appointment would require Milan to negotiate compensation with the Saudi club.
With Amorim currently out of contract, Milan could move quickly to secure a deal for the Portuguese tactician, who is now expected to lead the club’s rebuilding project ahead of the new season.
