Ruben Amorim has been sacked by Manchester United after 14 months as head coach, following a power struggle over transfer policy. Darren Fletcher, the former United midfielder and current under-18s coach, takes over as interim head coach and will lead the side at Burnley on Wednesday, with the possibility of remaining for Sunday's FA Cup tie with Brighton.
The decision was made on Monday morning, with the club citing the need for a change to achieve the highest possible Premier League finish. Amorim's relationship with the hierarchy soured after he demanded colleagues in the recruitment department “do their job” following Sunday’s draw at Leeds. He was reportedly frustrated that the club would not back him in the January transfer window, saying there were “no conversation to have any change in the squad.”
United are yet to decide on a permanent replacement, with the process led by director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada. Potential candidates include Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner, Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola, and unemployed Enzo Maresca. Thomas Tuchel is considered an outside prospect due to his England commitments, while Gareth Southgate and Mauricio Pochettino are also mentioned. Xavi is open to the role but faces concerns over his English and lack of Premier League experience.
Amorim, appointed in November 2024, oversaw United's lowest Premier League finish of 15th last season and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham. He was given £250m in spending but refused to adapt his system, downplayed the academy, and made underwhelming comments about senior players. His dismissal follows a difficult start to the season, including a Carabao Cup exit to League Two side Grimsby.
