"The style of play we had under Ruben Amorim perfectly suited me," Gyokeres told France Football on 9/7. "We won two consecutive national championships—something that hadn't happened in 71 years. It was an incredible achievement, and Ruben played a huge role in that success. I can't thank him enough."

Amorim celebrates with Gyokeres after Sporting's 4-1 victory over Man City in the 2024-2025 Champions League group stage. Photo: *Sky*

Amorim significantly impacted Gyokeres' career, signing him from Coventry City, then in the English Championship, in 2023. In the 2023-2024 season, Sporting won their first national title in 19 years, with Gyokeres scoring 29 goals. The following season, even after Amorim's mid-season move to Man Utd, Sporting successfully defended their title, thanks to the Swedish striker's 39 goals. Across his two seasons in Portugal, Gyokeres netted 97 goals in 102 matches.

In contrast to his success at Sporting Lisbon, Amorim faced a different challenge at Man Utd. Last season, the Red Devils finished 15th in the Premier League, their worst finish in 51 years. Although they reached the Europa League final, they lost 0-1 to Tottenham, missing their last chance to qualify for the next Champions League season.

Regarding Amorim's departure from Sporting, Gyokeres said, "It was surprising. I've never seen a manager leave mid-season when things are going so well. I don't hold any resentment. It was unexpected, but I completely understand his decision."

According to media reports, Gyokeres is likely to join the Premier League this summer. While Man Utd had shown interest, Arsenal appears to be in the lead. Sky Sports reports that Sporting is negotiating an $82 million deal with Arsenal for the Swedish striker, with an additional $12 million in add-ons. Meanwhile, Man Utd has already acquired striker Matheus Cunha from Wolves for $85 million. To fund further acquisitions, the Red Devils need to sell five surplus players: Marcus Rashford, Antony, Jadon Sancho, Tyrell Malacia, and Alejandro Garnacho.

Thanh Quy (France Football)