Manchester United have parted ways with head coach Ruben Amorim after just 14 months in charge, plunging the club into a fresh search for leadership. The decision was confirmed by the club in an official statement on Monday morning, following a disappointing 1-1 draw with Leeds United at Elland Road.
The End of Amorim's Brief Tenure
Ruben Amorim was appointed in November 2024 and managed to guide the team to the UEFA Europa League final in Bilbao last May. However, a series of underwhelming performances this season, which have left United sixth in the Premier League table, coupled with a reported breakdown in his relationship with the club's ownership, led to his dismissal.
In his final post-match comments, the 40-year-old Portuguese hinted at internal tensions, insisting he saw himself as the club's "manager" and not just a "coach". He stated he would not quit but would continue until the board decided to make a change. That change has now arrived, with under-18s coach Darren Fletcher taking temporary charge for the midweek fixture against Burnley.
Ratcliffe's Admired Successor: A Dream Out of Reach?
Attention has immediately turned to who will fill the vacant hot seat at Old Trafford. United's new minority owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who assumed control of football operations in early 2024, has previously made his admiration for one particular manager abundantly clear.
That man is Jurgen Klopp, the iconic former Liverpool boss who led the Reds to Premier League and Champions League glory. Back in March 2024, Ratcliffe praised Klopp's unique motivational skills, saying, "Klopp has this ability to drive his players to a frenzy. Total commitment on the pitch. And, you know, that's one of the things a good coach can do."
However, a move for the German now looks virtually impossible. Klopp is currently employed as the Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull, a role he took after ending his legendary nine-year reign at Anfield at the close of the 2023/24 season. He has repeatedly stated that his Liverpool job would be his last in club management, and the fierce historic rivalry between the two clubs presents a monumental additional barrier.
The Practical Shortlist Takes Shape
With Klopp deemed an unrealistic target, United's hierarchy is expected to pursue more attainable candidates. Several names are already circulating in connection with the role:
- Oliver Glasner: The Crystal Palace manager is believed to be high on the shortlist.
- Gareth Southgate: The former England boss remains a long-time favourite of Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
- Other Contenders: Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola, Aston Villa's Unai Emery, and former United defender Laurent Blanc have also been mentioned as potential options.
The club's statement thanked Amorim for his contribution and emphasised that the change was made to give the team the best possible chance of a high Premier League finish this season. The search for his permanent successor is now underway, marking another critical chapter in the Ratcliffe era at Manchester United.
