Ruben Amorim has been sacked as Manchester United manager less than 24 hours after a post-match press conference in which he publicly criticised the club's recruitment structure. The decision came after a 1-1 draw with Leeds United at Elland Road.
During the press conference, Amorim appeared to take aim at the club's hierarchy, stating he was 'the manager, not the coach' and that 'the scouting department, the sporting director, needs to do their job.' He suggested he had been told he could not make signings in the January transfer window.
The outburst drew comparisons to Enzo Maresca, who made similar remarks before his dismissal. Unlike Maresca, Amorim had no trophies to fall back on, having failed to win any silverware in his 14-month tenure, during which United recorded their worst Premier League campaign.
Journalists present described the outburst as unexpected and self-destructive. Amorim's comments were seen as an internal battle for control, ultimately giving co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe the opportunity to sack him.
Amorim's dismissal marks the end of a disappointing reign, with United failing to challenge for honours. The club will now begin the search for a new manager.
