AC Milan have confirmed the appointment of Ruben Amorim as their new head coach, the club announced on Tuesday via their official X account.

The Portuguese tactician, 41, arrives on a two-year deal reported to be worth €3.5 million ($4.06 million) net per year — a significant investment in a man charged with returning the Rossoneri to the UEFA Champions League.

"There are ambitions that stay with you throughout your career, and coaching AC Milan has always been one of mine," Amorim said. "I know exactly what this club means: history, prestige and an extraordinary fanbase around the world."

Amorim returns to management after six months away from the dugout, following his dismissal by Manchester United in January — a parting that cost the Premier League club £16.7 million ($22.4 million) despite more than 18 months remaining on his contract.

From Old Trafford to San Siro

Amorim had built a strong reputation at Sporting Lisbon before making the high-profile move to Manchester United, but he struggled to impose his methods at Old Trafford. His successor, Michael Carrick, ultimately guided United into next season's UEFA Champions League.

At Milan, the challenge is no less daunting. The club missed out on European football's elite competition on the final day of the Serie A season, suffering a shock 2-1 home defeat to Cagliari and finishing fifth — behind both Roma and Como, who claimed the last two Champions League places.

A club in transition

That result triggered loud protests from supporters directed at American owners RedBird, and set off a sweeping overhaul of the club's leadership. Coach Massimiliano Allegri, CEO Giorgio Furlani, and sporting directors Igli Tare and Geoffrey Moncada were all dismissed in the fallout.

Amorim now inherits a squad and a fanbase with high expectations. His primary brief is straightforward: secure a top-four finish in Serie A next season and end the club's absence from the UEFA Champions League.

Meanwhile, Allegri is widely reported to be on the verge of taking charge at Napoli, following the departure of Antonio Conte from that club.