Manchester United's head coach, Ruben Amorim, has launched a stunning public broadside against the club's hierarchy, emphatically declaring his role as 'manager' and not just 'coach' while casting significant doubt on his long-term future at Old Trafford.
A Fiery Declaration After Leeds Draw
The Portuguese coach's impassioned outburst came immediately after Sunday's 1-1 Premier League draw with Leeds United at Elland Road. Matheus Cunha's second-half strike salvaged a point for United after Brenden Aaronson had put the hosts ahead.
Visibly frustrated, Amorim used his post-match press conference to address what he perceives as a power struggle over the club's transfer strategy. "I came here to be the manager of Manchester United – not to be the coach of Manchester United," he stated unequivocally. "That is clear."
Pointed Criticism and a Stark Ultimatum
Amorim, whose official title is head coach, directly challenged the club's recruitment team. "Every department, the scouting department, the sporting director, needs to do their job," he said pointedly, in a clear message to sporting director Jason Wilcox and head of recruitment Christopher Vivell.
He then raised the spectre of his departure, linking it to the ongoing tensions. "I will do mine for 18 months and then we move on," Amorim declared, referencing the remaining length of his contract. He added a cryptic warning about the club's culture, stating, "If people cannot handle the Gary Nevilles and the criticisms of everything, we need to change the club," before ending the session abruptly.
Background to the Power Struggle
The 40-year-old's explosion follows reports of a strained relationship with Wilcox and suggestions that Vivell has questioned his tactical approach. Amorim had previously hinted at disagreements behind the scenes, notably stating last Friday that United had held 'no conversation' about changing the squad despite the January transfer window being open.
The situation is compounded by a squad crisis, with injuries and players absent at the Africa Cup of Nations depleting his options. Amorim's comments suggest he believes he should have greater autonomy in recruitment to address these issues, a responsibility he feels is being undermined.
This public airing of internal grievances places immense pressure on the United board and signals a potentially tumultuous period ahead for the club, as their manager fights for control with 18 months remaining on his deal.
