He may have learnt his trade under Mourinho – and is still close friends with the former Manchester United boss – but his footballing principles could not be more different.

“Amorim would admit he is still adding layers of knowledge to his methods but he still believes football only makes sense if those watching are thrilled by it,” said Balague.

“As well as those lessons from his former coach Jorge Jesus, Amorim looked closely at those who show a special quality as leaders, including Mourinho.

“He is, though, an enthusiast of spectacular, offensive football, with lots of goals, domination and control. He is a crowd pleaser.”

Amorim’s management style will be familiar to several players in the Premier League – United’s Manuel Ugarte, Manchester City’s Matheus Nunes, Tottenham’s Pedro Porro and Joao Palhinha of Bayern Munich were all part of his 2020-21 title-winning side.

At Sporting, the 39-year-old has often favoured a 3-4-3 formation, playing in a low block with attacking wing-backs pushing high up the pitch.

Off the ball they press aggressively and counter-attack quickly when in possession.

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes is also a fan.

“I think all the qualities are there to be able to succeed in English, French, or Spanish football,” he told SportTV last year.

“Obviously, we know that the Premier League is probably the most desired. The qualities [to succeed in England] are there and he has everything to take the next step, in my opinion.”

Balague added: “Amorim is like a sponge. After training and meetings, he likes to spend a couple of hours in his home office watching games, reading about football and managers, organising zooms with people he can learn new things from.

“He speaks good English and his recent reading material includes books about Guardiola, Mauricio Pochettino and Jose Mourinho.”