Manchester United have abruptly terminated the contract of manager Ruben Amorim, a mere 14 months after his appointment, in a dramatic U-turn from the club's hierarchy.
The Press Conference Rant That Sealed His Fate
The immediate catalyst for the dismissal was a remarkable and defiant outburst from Amorim during a press conference following a match at Elland Road. When questioned about whether he still had the backing of the board, the Portuguese coach launched into a passionate defence of his position.
"I came here to be the manager of Manchester United, not to be the coach of Manchester United," Amorim stated emphatically. He added, "I'm not going to quit. I will do my job until another guy is coming here to replace me." This public challenge to the club's leadership proved to be a step too far.
Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox reportedly took the decision to dismiss Amorim "reluctantly" on Monday morning, just a day after his vow not to walk away.
Broken Promises and Poor Results
The sacking represents a stark contradiction of public statements made by club owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe just three months prior. In October 2025, Ratcliffe, who controls football operations at United, explicitly called for patience.
Speaking on The Times' The Business podcast, the INEOS chief said, "Ruben needs to demonstrate he is a great coach over three years. That's where I would be." He criticised the media for wanting "overnight success" and insisted the club could not be run on "knee-jerk reactions."
Despite this backing, Amorim's record made his position increasingly precarious. In his 63 matches in charge, he secured only 24 wins. The team finished a dismal 15th in the Premier League last season and suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final, costing the club European football this term. An embarrassing Carabao Cup loss to Grimsby Town further damaged his standing.
What Happens Next at Old Trafford?
The club has moved quickly to appoint an interim successor. Darren Fletcher, the former United midfielder who most recently managed the club's under-18s side, has been promoted to take temporary charge.
His first task will be to prepare the team for their Premier League fixture against Burnley on Wednesday. United currently sit sixth in the table, with the board believing a change in leadership can salvage their campaign and push for improved results.
Amorim's tenure was also plagued by a significant injury crisis, with key players like Bruno Fernandes, Mason Mount, and Harry Maguire sidelined. The squad was further depleted by absences due to the Africa Cup of Nations. However, his confrontational approach in his final days ultimately led the board to act, breaking the three-year promise and beginning yet another new chapter in the post-Ferguson era at Old Trafford.
