Manchester United have sacked head coach Ruben Amorim, with the club set to appoint a caretaker manager for the remainder of the Premier League season.
Former United midfielder Darren Fletcher will take temporary charge for Wednesday night’s league clash against Burnley at Turf Moor. The 41-year-old Scot will remain in place until a caretaker appointment is finalised, while the club plans to name a permanent successor in the summer.
Amorim’s departure follows a turbulent period behind the scenes at Old Trafford. On Friday, the Portuguese coach held a tense and confrontational meeting with director of football Jason Wilcox, during which Amorim reacted negatively to criticism of his tactics and formation after a 1-1 draw with Wolves.
Speaking at a press conference shortly afterwards, Amorim hinted at a strained relationship with club officials and suggested he would not receive full backing in the transfer market. Following Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Leeds, he made further pointed remarks, stating he wanted to work as a manager “not the coach” and indicated he would be prepared to leave when his contract expired in 18 months.
Less than 24 hours later, Manchester United confirmed Amorim had “departed his role as head coach” after just 14 months in charge.
“With Manchester United currently sitting sixth in the Premier League, the club’s leadership has reluctantly decided that now is the right time to make a change,” a club statement read.
“This decision is aimed at giving the team the best possible chance of achieving the highest finish this season.
“The club thanks Ruben for his contribution and wishes him well for the future.”
Amorim’s entire coaching staff have also left the club.
In October, United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe said Amorim would be given three years to prove himself and stressed the importance of patience. However, sources have indicated the club now believes there has been insufficient progress or tactical development this season.
Amorim was appointed in November 2024 after United paid Sporting Lisbon €11m (£9.25m) to activate his release clause. He won 25 of his 63 matches in charge, making his tenure the shortest of any permanent United manager since David Moyes’ eight-month spell in 2014.
Fletcher, who is currently United’s under-18s head coach, previously served as the club’s technical director from 2021 to 2024. Although he has never managed at senior level, he brings extensive experience as a player, having represented United from 2002 to 2015 and 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 Burnley.
Would’ve liked to have seen him backed this Winter Window. Liked his direct attitude 🫡
100% agree, big shame he didn’t get the rest of the season! Who do you think will take over?