Manchester United goalkeeper Andre Onana has revealed he was among those who watched Sporting’s impressive victory over Manchester City in the Champions League on Tuesday night.
The Red Devils shot-stopper tuned in to witness incoming United manager Ruben Amorim orchestrate a masterclass against the Premier League champions at the Jose Alvalade Stadium.
Amorim, who is set to take charge at Old Trafford, marked his Lisbon farewell with a remarkable display of tactical prowess, outmanoeuvring Pep Guardiola’s side in what proved to be one of his finest results during his four-year tenure at Sporting.
The match saw Viktor Gyokeres steal the show with a stunning hat-trick performance for Sporting.
Phil Foden had initially put Manchester City ahead, but the hosts responded emphatically.
Maximiliano Araujo also found the back of the net as Sporting secured a memorable 4-1 triumph on home soil.
The result served as a perfect parting gift from Amorim, who admitted after the final whistle that he faces the challenge of lifting United from a “low” point, just as he did with Sporting in 2020.
Speaking ahead of Thursday’s Europa League clash against PAOK, Onana expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to adapt to Amorim’s approach.
“Yeah, I did. I did watch the game yesterday. Great victory from them, different system, but my players, my team-mates, we are all pragmatic,” Onana said.
The goalkeeper added: “I think everyone is capable of playing in each system so I don’t think this will be an issue for us. We have big players, so we’ll step up.”
United will be hoping to demonstrate this adaptability as they seek three points against PAOK, having drawn all three of their opening Europa League fixtures.
Ruben Amorim is set to begin his new role at Manchester United’s Carrington training ground on Monday.
Before taking the helm at Old Trafford, the Portuguese manager will oversee his final match for Sporting against his former club, SC Braga.
Current interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy will remain in charge for both Thursday’s Europa League fixture and Sunday’s Premier League clash with Leicester City.
Van Nistelrooy revealed he has yet to communicate with the incoming manager, stating: “No, I haven’t had contact so far. There’s no changes in that. I don’t know when [I will speak to Amorim].”
The Dutchman’s future role at the club remains uncertain despite his recent return to Old Trafford.