Queiroz takes Portugal job

Tactician leaves Man Utd to replace Scolari

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 11th July 2008

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Queiroz: Man Utd exit

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Carlos Queiroz has left Manchester United to become the new manager of Portugal.

The Portuguese football federation has announced the appointment of Queiroz on a four-year deal.

They have been on the lookout for a replacement for Luiz Felipe Scolari since the Brazilian took charge of Chelsea.

Scolari was named as Avram Grant's successor during Euro 2008 before Portugal bowed out of the tournament at the quarter-final stage.

Manchester United assistant boss Queiroz was immediately installed as the favourite for the Portugal job but he has had to wait for the outcome of talks between club and country.

There had been some speculation that Queiroz might want to stay at Old Trafford, with Sir Alex Ferguson viewing him as potentially the next United manager.

Honoured

However, Queiroz has now answered his country's call and will look to guide Portugal to glory at the next World Cup in South Africa.

"I am very proud and honoured to be able to go back and serve my country," Queiroz was quoted as saying in a statement from the FPF.

"This is a very special position that any professional would want."

Cristiano Ronaldo, who has been playing under Queiroz at United for the last four years, believes the FPF have made a wise decision.

He told RTP: "He is a perfect choice. I have been working with him for some time and I just have to say that he is very good for this job."

United, meanwhile, must turn their attention to finding a new right-hand man for Ferguson.

Brian McClair, Mick Phelan and even Eric Cantona have been linked with the role.