Manchester United had already agreed personal terms with Ruben Amorim before informing Erik ten Hag of his sacking, according to reports. The club's hierarchy, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, decided to part ways with the Dutchman in the days leading up to his final match—a 2-0 defeat away to West Ham in October 2024.
Ten Hag, 55, spent nearly two-and-a-half years at Old Trafford, winning a trophy in each of his full seasons. However, an eighth-placed Premier League finish and poor recruitment ultimately cost him his job. The club had initially opted to keep him in summer 2024, triggering a one-year contract extension, but a poor start to the third season prompted a rethink.
By October 25, 2024, Amorim had agreed personal terms and given verbal approval in calls with CEO Omar Berrada and soon-to-be director of football Jason Wilcox. This occurred while Ten Hag and the squad were travelling to London for the West Ham match. The Portuguese coach was appointed shortly after Ten Hag's dismissal on October 28.
Ten Hag was reportedly stunned by the decision, believing he would be given more time under the new leadership. After a brief hiatus, he returned to management with Bayer Leverkusen at the start of the 2025-26 season but lasted only three games.
