Ruben Amorim claims Manchester United “cannot play the way we play” after aiding Sporting Lisbon in a dominant victory over Manchester City. The incoming manager highlights a key area where the Red Devils’ style will differ.

Ruben Amorim led Sporting Lisbon in his last home game on Tuesday night, with one final match remaining before he departs to take over at Manchester United. Amorim, who recently agreed to a two-and-a-half-year contract with United as Erik ten Hag’s replacement, oversaw a stunning 4-1 win over Manchester City, highlighted by Viktor Gyokeres’ hat-trick.

After the game, Amorim emphasized that United will not be able to replicate Sporting’s style, explaining, “We cannot transport one reality to another. United cannot play the way we play; they cannot be so defensive.” He added, “Of course, it’s great to beat City, but I’ll be living in a different world, and we’ll have to start from a different point.”

Despite Sporting’s impressive scoreline, the team had only 27% possession, with just nine shots compared to City’s 20, and completed 181 passes to City’s 556, underscoring Amorim’s comments. Following the match, he gave an emotional farewell to Sporting fans in his last home appearance. He received a commemorative plaque honoring his four-year tenure and waved to the 50,000 fans, many holding a “Obrigado” (Thank You) tifo featuring his image.

Fans chanted his name early in the game, though City initially took the lead with Phil Foden’s goal. Sporting responded strongly in the second half, with Gyokeres leading them to a memorable victory. Afterward, City’s manager Pep Guardiola congratulated Amorim, with the next Manchester derby only 40 days away. Amorim stayed on the pitch long after the final whistle, completing a lap of honor as fans expressed their gratitude for his accomplishments, which included two league titles, the first in 19 years for the club.