Incoming Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has admitted that he is not naive and knows he will have his work cut out as United’s head coach. The Red Devils are struggling at the 13th place in the English Premier League with four wins, three draws and four losses in 11 matches they have played and they have a total of 15 points.

Amorim will take charge after Erik Ten Hag was sacked by the club following their horrid start to the new season. The Portuguese have signed a contract until June 2027 with the Old Trafford-based club after moving on from Sporting.

“I feel ready for the new challenge,” he told reporters after a 4-2 win against Braga on Sunday.

“I’m not naive, I know it’s going to be very different, very difficult. I’m at peace now, I can focus on my new job and I’m looking forward to starting tomorrow.”

Amorim led Sporting to two titles in Primeira Liga and said it would be difficult to reproduce the same performance.

“I know it will be difficult to reproduce what I have here elsewhere, but there are other places with different exposure and pressure … It’s been a fantastic adventure,” said Amorim.

“I apologise for this mid-season decision, but I felt it was my time and my way.”

Amorim is expected to take charge of United soon from interim coach Ruud van Nistelrooy and the November 24 match against Ipswich Town could be his first with the club after International break. The Dutchman has led United to three wins and one draw since Ten Hag’s sacking on October 28.

Meanwhile, Sporting appointed João Pereira Amorim as the club’s new head coach on Monday.