A major rift has emerged at the top of Manchester United, with key decision-makers locked in a private disagreement over who should replace the sacked manager, Ruben Amorim.
Search Begins Amidst Internal Conflict
Following the dismissal of Portuguese coach Ruben Amorim on 5th January 2026, the club's owners, the Glazer family, and minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe have begun the urgent hunt for a new permanent boss. However, a significant problem has already surfaced: the power brokers at Old Trafford cannot agree on the best path forward.
The core disagreement centres on timing. One faction is pushing for an immediate appointment, while another believes it is wiser to wait until the summer. This indecision leaves the team in the hands of caretaker manager Darren Fletcher, who is expected to oversee the next two matches.
The Contenders and Complications
A six-man shortlist has been drawn up, featuring some of the biggest names in football. The candidates under serious consideration are:
- Oliver Glasner (Crystal Palace)
- Enzo Maresca
- Laurent Blanc
- Xavi
- Mauricio Pochettino
- Zinedine Zidane
Oliver Glasner is viewed as a leading candidate due to his impressive work at Crystal Palace. A deal could potentially be struck in the coming weeks, but there are reservations about his lack of experience managing a club of United's immense stature.
Other high-profile options, like Mauricio Pochettino and Thomas Tuchel, present a different hurdle. Both will be managing national teams—USA and England respectively—at the upcoming World Cup, meaning they would be unavailable until after the tournament concludes.
The Stakes at Old Trafford
The immediate priority for the club is crystal clear: securing a top-four finish and qualification for the Champions League. There is a strong belief that this task is too great for the inexperienced Fletcher, increasing the pressure to appoint a proven leader swiftly.
United's hierarchy is acutely aware that the club cannot afford a second consecutive season without European football. The minimum requirement for the new manager, whenever they arrive, will be a top-six Premier League finish.
Amorim's departure came after just 14 months in charge, with the final trigger being his furious rant after a 1-1 draw with Leeds United at Elland Road. However, sources indicate the decision to sack him had already been made prior to that match, with Ratcliffe and INEOS having lost faith. He leaves with United sixth in the table, having won only one of their last five games.
The ongoing managerial chaos marks another turbulent chapter in the Ratcliffe and INEOS era, leaving fans and players alike in a state of uncertainty as the season reaches a critical point.
