Manchester United have parted ways with head coach Ruben Amorim, with the club set to appoint an interim manager to oversee the team for the rest of the season.
Former United midfielder Darren Fletcher will lead the side for Wednesday’s Premier League clash against Burnley. The Scot will remain in charge temporarily until a caretaker manager is formally named, while the club plans to appoint a permanent replacement in the summer.
Amorim’s dismissal follows a tense meeting on Friday with United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, during which the Portuguese coach reportedly reacted badly to criticism of his tactics and formation after a 1-1 draw with Wolves. Shortly after that meeting, Amorim hinted publicly that his relationship with club executives had become strained, suggesting he might not receive full backing in the transfer market.
Following Sunday’s 1-1 draw away to Leeds, Amorim further fuelled speculation by stating he wanted to function as a manager rather than simply a coach and indicated he would be prepared to leave once his contract expires in 18 months.
Less than a day later, United confirmed that Amorim had left his position after just 14 months in charge. In a statement, the club said that with the team currently sitting sixth in the Premier League, leadership felt a change was necessary to maximise their chances of finishing as high as possible.
United thanked Amorim for his service and wished him well, while confirming that his entire coaching staff would also be leaving the club.
Although United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe had previously said Amorim would be given time to prove himself, sources close to the club say there has been insufficient progress or tactical development this season. Amorim was appointed in November 2024 after United paid Sporting €11m to activate his release clause.
During his time at Old Trafford, Amorim won 25 of his 63 matches, making his reign the shortest for a permanent United manager since David Moyes’ brief spell in 2014.
Fletcher, who currently manages United’s under-18 side and previously served as technical director, will step into the spotlight despite having no senior coaching experience. The former Scotland international enjoyed a successful playing career at United, winning five Premier League titles and the 2008 Champions League.
Behind the scenes, frustration had been growing over Amorim’s reluctance to move away from his preferred three-man defence, despite repeated assurances that his system would evolve. Senior figures at Old Trafford believed the squad, bolstered by more than £200m in attacking signings, was better suited to a different tactical approach.
Tensions peaked after United reverted to a back three against Wolves, a decision that baffled fans and club officials alike following a brief switch to a back four days earlier. The resulting draw was viewed internally as a major setback.
Despite questions over whether United’s actions breached international football norms or internal governance expectations, the club ultimately decided the relationship had become unsustainable.
Amorim leaves with one of the poorest Premier League records in the club’s modern history, including the lowest win percentage of any permanent United manager in the competition. While he guided the team to a Europa League final last season, domestic form remained inconsistent, and defensive struggles persisted throughout his tenure.
Manchester United will now turn their attention to stabilising the season, beginning with Wednesday’s match against Burnley, as speculation intensifies over who will take charge permanently.
