Anfield Watch
·7 mai 2024
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·7 mai 2024
Sporting CP wrapped up their second Liga Portugal title in four seasons last weekend. Their closest challengers Benfica lost 2-0 to Famalicao on Sunday, meaning Sporting were gifted the title having beaten Portimonense 3-0 on Saturday night.
It guaranteed a second title since 2021 for their highly-regarded coach Ruben Amorim, who had been on the wishlist for Liverpool as they sought a replacement for Jurgen Klopp.
The 39-year-old Portuguese was reckoned to be the favourite to step into the Anfield hotseat after first-choice Xabi Alonso made the decision to remain with Bundesliga title holders Bayer Leverkusen.
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However, the trail went cold regarding Amorim and his ill-advised trip to London by private plane in order to speak with West Ham about taking David Moyes’ job was the final straw.
It was also reported that Amorim was dissatisfied with the Reds dragging their feet over offering him the job while Portuguese reports suggested that the coach was looking for a salary of €10 million net, which was more than Liverpool were prepared to go to.
Shortly following that trip, Liverpool circulated that Arne Slot was the man they were pursuing with the Feyenoord coach’s arrival now imminent.
A couple of weeks ago, Amorim acknowledged that his meeting with West Ham was badly timed and he apologised to his club and supporters for undertaking it.
And now in the euphoria of the title being wrapped up, Amorim has made the definitive announcement that he will stay.
The former midfielder is under contract with the Lions until 2026 and has got a release clause in his deal worth around €15 million for interested overseas clubs.
“I’ll stay with Sporting,” Amorim said. “I have a contract and this is a special moment for me and for the club. We will try to win a third title together.”
Amorim will also have the chance to wrap up a domestic double with the Taca de Portugal (Portuguese cup) final against Porto to come at the end of the month.
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