Ruben Amorim was sacked by Manchester United on Monday morning after 14 months as head coach, with Darren Fletcher appointed as interim manager. The Scot, a former United midfielder and current under-18s coach, will lead the side at Burnley on Wednesday and could remain for Sunday's FA Cup tie with Brighton.
United are undecided on a permanent replacement, with the process led by director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada. Candidates include Michael Carrick, Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraola, Enzo Maresca, Thomas Tuchel, Gareth Southgate, Mauricio Pochettino and Xavi. The club may appoint a temporary coach until the summer.
Amorim's departure followed a power struggle over transfer policy. He demanded colleagues in recruitment 'do their job' after Sunday's draw at Leeds, and said: 'I came here to be the manager of Manchester United – not to be the coach.' United's hierarchy had lost confidence in him as a long-term solution.
United's statement 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.' The club insisted Amorim was given full backing, pointing to £250m spent since his appointment.
Amorim oversaw United's lowest Premier League finish (15th) last season and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham. He was also knocked out of the Carabao Cup by League Two side Grimsby Town. He was appointed on 1 November 2024 until June 2027.
