Amorim sacked by Man Utd after 14 months in charge
Amorim sacked by Man Utd after 14 months in charge: Manchester United have dismissed head coach Ruben Amorim, with former midfielder Darren Fletcher set to step in as interim manager for Wednesday’s Premier League fixture against Burnley.
Amorim’s position had appeared increasingly uncertain in recent days. On Friday, the Portuguese coach suggested tensions had developed between himself and senior club figures, hinting that he did not feel fully supported in the transfer market.
- Time is right to change Man Utd formation – Amorim
- Enzo Maresca Under Pressure at Chelsea: Inside the Results Slump, Boardroom Tensions, and the Defining January Ahead
- Liverpool set-piece problems a ‘killer’ – Van Dijk
- Arsenal in ‘survival’ mode as ‘sensational’ Raya save keeps them top
Following Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Leeds, Amorim made further pointed remarks, stating that he wanted to operate as a manager rather than “just the coach” and indicating he was prepared to walk away when his contract expires in 18 months.
Less than a day later, Manchester United confirmed that Amorim had “departed his role as head coach” after 14 months in charge.
“With Manchester United currently sixth in the Premier League, the club’s leadership has reluctantly decided that now is the right moment to make a change,” the statement read.
“This decision is aimed at giving the team the best possible chance of achieving the highest league finish.
“The club thanks Ruben Amorim for his efforts and wishes him every success in the future.”
Amorim’s entire coaching staff have also left the club.
Sources close to United told BBC Sport that decision-makers felt there had been insufficient progress or tactical development during the current campaign.
The 40-year-old was appointed in November 2024 and recorded 25 wins from 63 matches in all competitions. His 14-month spell is the shortest tenure of a permanent Manchester United manager since David Moyes was dismissed just eight months into his role in 2014.
Darren Fletcher, who will take temporary charge, is currently head coach of United’s under-18 side and previously served as the club’s technical director between 2021 and 2024. However, he has no prior experience as a senior first-team manager.
The 41-year-old former Scotland international enjoyed a long playing career at Old Trafford between 2002 and 2015, winning five Premier League titles and the 2007-08 Champions League.
Fletcher is expected to face the media on Tuesday ahead of United’s trip to Turf Moor to face Burnley the following day.
