Ruben Amorim heading to Benfica? Presidential candidate reacts to shock transfer talk and explains visit to watch Man Utd in derby

Lopes, Pedro Ferreira, and Nuno Gomes all watched Amorim's United get well beaten by City on Sunday. The former is said to be the favourite to win Benfica's presidential election and oust incumbent Rui Costa on October 25. While the 59-year-old businessman said he didn't meet with Amorim in Manchester, he does want him at Benfica in the future. 

He said, via A Bola: "We went to Manchester to watch the derby and took the opportunity to hold meetings and prepare for Benfica's future. I didn't meet with Bernardo [Silva] and Ruben [Amorim] before the game. Ruben is under contract with Manchester United, and I don't comment on Manchester United's results."

Lopes added, "Ruben Amorim is the coach of Manchester United, I can’t answer that question. One thing I know, Ruben Amorim will be the coach of Benfica one day."

Amorim, who played 153 times for Benfica between 2008-17, reportedly retains the backing of United's hierarchy but there is no doubt he will be under pressure after overseeing the club's worst start to a Premier League season in 33 years. Former Wolves manager Bruno Lage is currently in charge at Benfica, but it seems if Lopes gets in, he will pursue Amorim.

Amorim's United, who have four points from their opening four games this season, are back in Premier League action on Saturday at home to Chelsea. The 14th-placed Red Devils will hope to cause an upset against the Blues, who are fifth in the league.