A former Sporting Lisbon executive has sharply criticised manager Ruben Amorim ahead of his anticipated departure to Manchester United, accusing him of a ‘fantasy’ dedication to the club.

Sporting announced on Tuesday that Manchester United intend to pay the €10 million (£8.5 million) release clause to free Amorim from his contract.

Amorim managed Sporting's 3-1 League Cup victory over Nacional, where he addressed questions concerning United's approach after the match.

The 39-year-old is already facing backlash amidst expectations that he will leave Sporting just nine matches into their league campaign for a move to the Premier League.

Jaime Marta Soares, the former chairman of Sporting's General Assembly, has claimed that Amorim’s reputation at the club has been damaged by his impending exit.

Soares argued that Amorim's dedication to Sporting has been revealed as mere ‘fantasy’, and criticised his decision to depart mid-season.

He also condemned Sporting president Frederico Varandas for failing to prevent Amorim’s exit, calling it a ‘real disaster’.

“[Ruben Amorim’s] attitude and personality appeared to be one thing, but it all fell apart in an instant,” Soares told Radio Renascenca.

“His love, passion, and dedication to Sporting were simply fantasy. He was the one who built an environment with a devoted Sporting fanbase around him, who adored and respected him. He shouldn’t have turned his back on the club that nurtured him.

“I am a fan of Ruben Amorim, but certain actions should not be tolerated. It was at Sporting that he made his name.

“If he hadn’t been lured by the dream of making millions, and since he was beloved by Sporting supporters, he should have considered leaving on a high note, not like this. Sporting fans will undoubtedly react.”

Amorim has been accused by some Sporting supporters of ‘abandoning’ the club, which he led to two Portuguese league titles.

The 39-year-old has achieved nine consecutive league wins this season, and Sporting are currently eighth in the newly restructured Champions League.

Back in April, Amorim issued an apology to the club and its supporters after engaging in talks with West Ham.

He had travelled to England to meet with the Hammers while Sporting were on the verge of securing the Portuguese title.

Following Sporting’s victory over Nacional on Tuesday, Amorim refused to elaborate on his future, though he acknowledged that the final decision lies with him.

“Manchester United are interested, but the choice is mine,” he stated. “Until everything is finalised, we won’t be making a fuss. I have nothing useful to add. I will commit to whatever I decide, as I always have.

“I don’t want to add fuel to this matter. There’s the club’s statement to the CMVM, but beyond that, we’re still waiting on the details – we’ll see.

“I have always taken responsibility for my choices, and I will continue to do so. Once I’m certain, it will be easier.”

Amorim departed promptly at the final whistle, opting not to bid farewell to fans, many of whom were moved to tears by news of his likely exit.

He acknowledged supporters’ frustration, describing their reaction as ‘natural’.

“I haven’t even left Sporting yet,” he remarked. “What I’m saying is that once everything is confirmed, I’ll return here to discuss it all and provide an explanation.

“Of course they’re [the fans] upset. They have a great deal of affection for me and my work. People must feel whatever they need to feel in this moment. I understand that and believe it’s perfectly natural.

“If I have the chance – and I certainly will – I’ll explain in detail why I made one choice or another.”