Ruben Amorim's turbulent tenure at Manchester United has come to a costly end, with the Portuguese manager facing a significant financial penalty following his abrupt dismissal.
The Swift Fallout from a Heated Press Conference
Amorim was relieved of his duties as head coach on Monday, 5 January 2026, less than 24 hours after publicly criticising the club's hierarchy. The decisive action came after a fiery press conference following United's draw at Leeds United, where the 40-year-old appeared to challenge his superiors to stop interfering with his work.
Manchester United confirmed the departure in a brief statement, thanking Amorim for his contribution which included leading the team to the UEFA Europa League final in May 2025. The club cited the team's position of sixth in the Premier League as the reason for the change, stating it was necessary to secure the highest possible finish.
A £10m Payout with a Hefty Tax Deduction
Due to the absence of a break clause in the contract he signed upon his appointment in November 2024, the Red Devils are obligated to pay out his contract in full. This entitles Amorim to a severance package worth just over £10 million.
However, the former Sporting manager will not receive the full amount. A substantial portion, nearly half, will be claimed by the UK tax authorities. The payment is subject to the UK's additional tax rate, although termination payments are typically exempt from National Insurance contributions.
This complex financial arrangement means the UK treasury will receive over £6 million from the settlement through tax and employer contributions. Consequently, Amorim is expected to be left with approximately £5.5 million to take home.
Search for a Successor and Lasting Legacy
Reports from The Athletic suggest a 'breakdown in relations' with key figures such as Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox was the primary cause for the split. Assistant coach Darren Fletcher has taken temporary charge, leading the team for their match against Burnley.
Manchester United are now searching for a permanent replacement, with an appointment unlikely before the season concludes. Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner is considered a leading candidate, while Kieran McKenna, Enzo Maresca, and Julian Nagelsmann are also reportedly in contention.
Amorim's sudden exit marks a dramatic close to a brief chapter at Old Trafford, underscoring the high-stakes financial and political pressures at the top level of Premier League football.
