Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has suggested that Manchester United were on the cusp of becoming genuine title contenders before their decision to sack head coach Ruben Amorim this week.
Guardiola Points to Fine Margins at Old Trafford
The Portuguese manager was dismissed by United on Monday, 6 January 2026, following a reported fallout with director of football Jason Wilcox. The club confirmed the move less than 24 hours after a 1-1 draw away to Leeds United, a result that left them sixth in the Premier League table.
Reflecting on his rival's departure, Guardiola emphasised the narrow margins in top-flight football. He argued that had United secured victories in matches where they were favourites, their league position could look dramatically different. "They could have been close to Arsenal," the City boss stated, drawing a parallel with his own team's proximity to the league leaders.
"I don't think there's a country where if you don't win games you are safe," Guardiola explained. "Normally if you don't get results it doesn't matter the past or the present. They hire you with a perspective for your ideas and you are sacked for results."
The Results That Cost Amorim
Guardiola specifically highlighted a series of costly home draws that undermined Amorim's tenure. He pointed to matches against Everton, Bournemouth, and Wolves as pivotal moments. In the Everton game, United failed to capitalise against ten men for 70 minutes.
These dropped points contributed to a poor run of form, with the club failing to win in nine of their last 11 Premier League fixtures. This slump ultimately proved fatal for Amorim, who had led United to the UEFA Europa League final in Bilbao in May 2025 after his appointment in November 2024.
Guardiola also noted the impact of player absences, a challenge he sympathises with. "The gaps are so small and now you see United have had a lot of absences like we have right now and it's difficult with players at the Africa Cup of Nations and important players not available," he added.
United's Statement and Immediate Future
In its official statement, Manchester United said the decision was made to improve the chances of achieving "the highest possible Premier League finish." The club thanked Amorim for his contribution and confirmed that Darren Fletcher would take temporary charge for the midweek fixture against Burnley.
Paying tribute to Amorim's abilities, Guardiola concluded: "Like what happened with Enzo (Maresca) I cannot say anything for the respect of the players and institutions. Like Enzo, he (Amorim) is a top manager. The decision has been made by our neighbours. I wish Ruben all the best in the future."
The swift dismissal underscores the intense pressure for immediate results at the highest level of English football, a reality Guardiola knows all too well.
