Manchester United's first-team squad were reportedly left disgruntled and blindsided by the sudden dismissal of head coach Ruben Amorim on Monday, with the club's hierarchy failing to consult the players before making the call.
Dressing Room Backing Amid Behind-the-Scenes Power Struggle
The Portuguese manager's 14-month reign at Old Trafford was brought to an abrupt end less than 24 hours after a 1-1 draw away at Leeds United. While reports indicate a power struggle with key figures in the United hierarchy was the ultimate cause, the playing staff are said to have retained their confidence in Amorim's project.
Players were informed of the decision on Monday morning, though The Sun claims many had sensed the axe was looming for several days. In a notable show of support, a significant number of United stars took to social media to publicly thank Amorim following his departure—a gesture not always extended to outgoing managers at the club.
Under Amorim's guidance, there had been clear signs of progress. A landmark victory at Anfield against Liverpool and wins over rivals like Newcastle United highlighted the potential. Despite inconsistent results, such as disappointing home draws with West Ham and Wolves, the squad remained believers in his methods.
Confrontation with Martinez and Lack of Player Consultation
However, the tenure was not without its internal friction. It has emerged that Amorim was involved in a heated confrontation with defender Lisandro Martinez. The Argentine international, who felt he was being overlooked for selection despite being fit, reportedly squared up to the manager. Martinez later regained his starting place and even captained the side.
A key point of contention for the players was the complete lack of consultation before Amorim's sacking. Unlike during some previous managerial changes, the Ineos-led board made the decision independently. This approach has now intensified the scrutiny on their next appointment, with the dressing room's morale a clear concern.
Press Conference Remarks Proved the Final Straw
Ultimately, it is believed Amorim's post-match comments after the Leeds game sealed his fate. At Elland Road, he hinted at multiple frustrations, centring on a desire for greater control and influence over football matters. He also remarked that he was already looking ahead to life after Manchester when his contract expired.
Club legend Gary Neville weighed in on the situation, stating that no one emerges from a mid-season sacking looking good. "When a manager is sacked, it's a poor reflection on everybody. It means it's not worked," Neville said. "Ultimately everyone loses, particularly when you are sacking a manager partway through the season. It's very difficult to get an adequate replacement in."
Neville added that while he was not shocked by the decision, the speed of the action was surprising, suggesting he expected the club to deliberate for a couple more weeks.
The dismissal leaves Manchester United facing a substantial financial payout to Amorim and casts a shadow of uncertainty over the remainder of their season, as the search for a third permanent manager in just over two years begins.
