Manchester United have been plunged into a fresh managerial search following the sudden departure of head coach Ruben Amorim. The club confirmed the Portuguese manager's exit in a statement released on Monday morning, 6th January 2026.
Amorim's Departure and Fletcher's Interim Role
Ruben Amorim has left his role as Head Coach of Manchester United, the club announced. He was appointed in November 2024 and guided the team to the UEFA Europa League final in Bilbao in May 2025. However, with United currently sitting sixth in the Premier League table, the club's hierarchy decided a change was necessary to secure the highest possible finish this season.
The club expressed thanks for Amorim's contribution and wished him well for the future. In the immediate aftermath, Darren Fletcher has been appointed to oversee Wednesday's Premier League fixture against Burnley. It remains unclear whether the former United midfielder will remain in charge for the rest of the 2025/26 campaign while the club seeks a permanent appointment, potentially in the summer.
Contenders for the Old Trafford Hot Seat
Speculation is rife over who will take the helm, either on an interim or permanent basis. Bookmakers have installed former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as the current favourite at odds of 7/4. Reports on Tuesday afternoon suggested contact had been made between the Norwegian's representatives and the club regarding a potential interim role until the season's end.
Other prominent names in the frame include Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner (3/1), who is out of contract this summer, and former England manager Gareth Southgate (7/1). Darren Fletcher's odds stand at 7/1 should he impress in temporary charge.
Wider Field of Candidates
The list of potential candidates is extensive. Former Chelsea managers Thomas Tuchel (8/1) and Enzo Maresca (8/1) feature, though Tuchel is preparing for the 2026 World Cup with England. Mauricio Pochettino (12/1), currently with the USA national team, and ex-United midfielder Michael Carrick (12/1) are also mentioned.
Further afield, Barcelona legend Xavi (14/1) and Ipswich Town's highly-rated Kieran McKenna (16/1), a former United assistant, complete the bookmakers' leading contenders. The club is expected to carefully assess all options as they aim to stabilise a challenging season.
The coming days will be crucial in determining the short-term leadership at Old Trafford, with the match against Burnley offering the first glimpse of a post-Amorim era.
