Ruben Amorim's position as Manchester United head coach is under threat due to a strained relationship with director of football Jason Wilcox, according to sources. The 40-year-old, who took over in November 2024, believed the club would back him in the January transfer window for a major signing, but has since been informed otherwise by Wilcox, who reports to chief executive Omar Berrada.
While Sir Jim Ratcliffe previously stated Amorim should be given three years, there are now reservations within the hierarchy. These concerns predate Amorim's public outburst after Sunday's 1-1 draw with Leeds, where he insisted he is the manager, not just the coach, and hinted he may 'move on' when his contract expires in 18 months.
Earlier misgivings were underlined by a reluctance to sell Kobbie Mainoo, who is out of favour under Amorim. The 20-year-old midfielder, currently injured, has not started a Premier League game this season, but the hierarchy believe he could convince Amorim or a future head coach of his worth.
On Friday, Amorim refused to clarify Christmas Eve comments about needing significant spending for his 3-4-3 system, saying: 'I don't want to talk about that... You are very smart.' He is considered temperamental, making his position unclear, though he stated he would not resign. Wilcox, as Berrada's appointment, is thought to have greater support from the chief executive.
Amorim inflamed the situation on Sunday with an impassioned press conference, telling the scouting department and sporting director 'to do their job'. He said: 'I came here to be the manager of Manchester United – not to be the coach... It's going to be like this for 18 months or until the board decide to change.' He added: 'If people cannot handle the Gary Nevilles and the criticisms... we need to change the club', before abruptly ending.
