Manchester United have parted ways with head coach Ruben Amorim after a tenure lasting just under a year, the club confirmed on Monday morning. The decision comes with the team in sixth place in the Premier League after 20 matches of the 2025/26 season.
A Turbulent Tenure at Old Trafford
Amorim's arrival at Manchester United in the summer of 2025 followed a successful spell at Sporting CP, where he won the Portuguese league title. However, his time at Old Trafford failed to meet expectations. His first season culminated in a bottom-half Premier League finish, the club's worst in the competition's history, and a defeat in the Europa League final which condemned United to a season without European football.
While results showed a slight improvement in the current campaign, the board deemed it insufficient. In an official statement, the club said: "With Manchester United sitting sixth in the Premier League, the club’s leadership has reluctantly made the decision that it is the right time to make a change. This will give the team the best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish."
Amorim's Previous 'Mistake' with West Ham
Months before his move to Manchester, Amorim was involved in a public controversy. In April 2024, while still managing Sporting CP during a title race, he held talks with West Ham United about replacing David Moyes. He later admitted this was an error in judgement.
"Obviously my trip was a mistake, the timing was completely wrong," Amorim stated at the time. He emphasised that Sporting were aware of his travel plans, countering claims of secrecy, but conceded: "It was wrong, especially when I'm so demanding with my players... I have to accept it and live with it."
West Ham ultimately appointed Julen Lopetegui, who was later succeeded by Graham Potter and then Nuno Espirito Santo. Amorim, meanwhile, stayed to win the title with Sporting before his eventual, brief move to Manchester.
What Comes Next for United?
The search for a new permanent manager at Old Trafford begins immediately. Amorim's departure leaves the club facing a crucial second half of the season as they aim to salvage a top-four finish and Champions League qualification.
The sacking underscores the continued instability at Manchester United, who have now cycled through multiple managers in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era. The club's statement suggests the decision was made to salvage their league position, but it poses significant questions about the long-term strategy and direction at one of football's most storied institutions.
