The first voice from Ruben Amorim's inner circle has spoken out following the Portuguese manager's dramatic dismissal from Manchester United earlier this week.
Assistant Coach Breaks the Silence
Carlos Fernandes, who followed Amorim from Sporting Lisbon to Old Trafford in November 2024, broke the squad's silence via an Instagram post. He expressed gratitude to the club, its 'world-class players,' supportive staff, and the fans.
"In the end, working at a football club of this dimension not only tests your knowledge but reveals your character," Fernandes wrote, describing his time as Amorim's assistant as a "special chapter" in his life.
His comments come after Amorim was sacked on Monday, just 14 months into his tenure. The decision followed a furious outburst from Amorim directed at the club's hierarchy after a 1-1 draw with Leeds United at Elland Road.
Interestingly, Daily Mail Sport reported that Amorim left the Carrington training complex laughing and joking with his coaching staff, seemingly relieved, and was later seen cheerfully walking in his Cheshire neighbourhood.
The Search for an Interim Boss
With Amorim gone, the United hierarchy moved swiftly to appoint an interim manager. Former midfielder Darren Fletcher, 41, has taken temporary charge, starting with tonight's Premier League fixture against Burnley at Turf Moor.
Fletcher, calling the opportunity "beyond my wildest dreams," has deferred talks about his long-term future. He will be assisted by under-21 coaches Travis Binnion and Alan Wright, with Jonny Evans also returning to the coaching set-up.
Meanwhile, football director Jason Wilcox is leading the process to find a short-term manager until season's end. The race is understood to be a two-horse contest between two club legends: Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick.
Solskjaer, sacked by Besiktas earlier this season, is in line for an emotional return more than four years after his own dismissal as United's permanent manager. Carrick, who took charge for three games after Solskjaer's exit in November 2021, is available after leaving Middlesbrough in June.
United officials have spoken to both candidates but plan in-person meetings before making a final decision. Ruud van Nistelrooy, who stepped in last season, is no longer in contention.
Fletcher's First Test and Squad News
Fletcher's immediate focus is on securing a result against Burnley, ahead of a potential FA Cup clash with Brighton this weekend. He confirmed his full attention is on the match, with future discussions to follow.
In a boost for the interim setup, both captain Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount are expected to return to the starting lineup against Burnley after recovering from their respective injuries.
The coming days will be crucial for United as they seek stability after another tumultuous managerial change, with the eyes of the football world firmly fixed on who will next occupy the hot seat at Old Trafford.
