‘I was upset that Ruben Amorim was sacked by Man Utd – he was like a dad to me’ | Football | Sport

Manchester United winger Amad has opened up about the exit of boss Ruben Amorim, likening the Portuguese tactician to a father figure. Amorim was dismissed by United at the beginning of last week. The decision came in the wake of a fiery post-match media briefing following last weekend’s 1-1 stalemate with Leeds United.

Amad emerged as one of the standout performers during Amorim’s tenure. The winger is presently away on international duty representing the Ivory Coast at the Africa Cup of Nations. Ahead of his nation’s quarter-final clash with Egypt on Saturday, he shared his thoughts on Amorim’s departure from Old Trafford and disclosed the message he’s conveyed to his ex-boss.

«It was a tough topic,» he said, via BeIN Sport. «I was a bit sad, because he’s the coach who gave me more visibility and more opportunities to play for Manchester United.

«I was very sad. I even sent him a message to thank him for everything he did for me, both in my life and especially in my career.

«I wished him good luck wherever he goes. It was a difficult moment for me, but I’m really focused on Ivory Coast and on this competition. I want to finish well here and try to win this AFCON.

«We had a very good relationship, almost like a father-and-son relationship. He understood me, and gave me a lot of advice, and let me play freely.

«It’s very unfortunate, but that’s life. You have to adapt, that’s football. I wish him all the best in life and his next club. My focus is Ivory Coast. I have to give everything for the country.»

Amad’s participation in the Africa Cup of Nations has resulted in him missing the last five Premier League matches. He will also be absent for this weekend’s third round FA Cup tie against Brighton.

If the Ivory Coast triumph over Egypt in their quarter-final clash, it would mean that Amad would miss next weekend’s Premier League fixture against Manchester City due to his involvement in either the final or the third-place play-off.

However, should they suffer a defeat against Egypt, then Amad would return in time for the Manchester derby. United have already received a boost ahead of that encounter.

Cameroon’s loss to Morocco ensures that Bryan Mbeumo will be available for next weekend’s game. However, it does mean that full-back Noussair Mazraoui will be out of action, as he will be representing Morocco in the semi-final.