Ruben Amorim's emotional farewell? Man Utd's top target guides Sporting CP to cup quarter-final victory with in-demand Viktor Gyokeres scoring twice

Amorim managed Sporting for what could be the final time on Tuesday evening amid interest from United in appointing him as Erik ten Hag's successor. Sporting announced in the day that United had communicated their desire to pay his release clause as they bid to install him ahead of this weekend's clash with Chelsea, although confusion over his notice period could potentially delay the move.

Amorim was thus on the sidelines for potentially the final time, as they ran out comfortable winners over Nacional. Morten Hjulmand opened the scoring in the 53rd minute, before Viktor Gyokeres netted from the penalty spot to double their lead in the 65th minute. Ruben Macedo pulled a goal back from the kick-off somewhat inadvertently, as a long-range strike deflected in off him, but Gyokeres swiftly restored Sporting's two-goal lead. Amorim may well be considering his quality as an attacker if he does make the move to Old Trafford. He has also been linked with Chelsea.

Sporting were runners-up in the Portuguese League Cup last season, losing 2-1 to Porto in the final after extra time. Sporting made up for it by winning the Primeira Liga. In 2022-23, they failed to win a trophy, but in 2021-22, they won the League Cup. They are now into the last four, but it remains to be seen if Amorim will be in charge when they play the semi-final. At full-time, he merely shook his opposite number's hand and headed down the tunnel, with no grand farewell to the supporters, though he was greeted with warm applause prior to kick-off.

Post-match, Amorim told the press, "Nothing is decided yet… I don't know if it's the farewell game or not." Sporting's next game comes against Estrela Amadora on Friday, and they then face Manchester City in the Champions League next week. United hope to have Amorim in charge by Sunday, after they face Leicester City in the EFL Cup on Wednesday.