Manchester United have sacked head coach Ruben Amorim, the club confirmed on Monday, 5 January 2026, after 14 months in charge.
The decision comes amid mounting tensions between Amorim and the club hierarchy, as well as mixed results on the pitch.
The 40‑year‑old Portuguese boss, appointed in November 2024 to succeed Erik ten Hag, departs Old Trafford following a 1–1 Premier League draw with Leeds United on Sunday.
United sit sixth in the table, a position the club leadership felt necessitated a change to help improve their league campaign.
In an official statement, Manchester United said the decision was made “reluctantly” but was deemed necessary to give the team “the best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish.”
The club also thanked Amorim for his contributions and wished him well for the future.
Interim Manager Appointed
Former United midfielder Darren Fletcher, currently the club’s Under‑18s coach, will take charge of the first team on an interim basis ahead of Wednesday’s Premier League match against Burnley.
BREAKING: Manchester United have sacked Ruben Amorim 🚨
Tensions Behind the Scenes
Amorim’s exit follows a public outburst after the weekend draw in which he criticised the club’s hierarchy and insisted he came to Manchester United “to be the manager of this team, not just the coach.”
His comments underscored a strained relationship with the club’s football leadership, particularly over authority, tactical control and transfer‑related issues.
The Portuguese head coach had previously expressed frustration over his role and expectations, emphasising he wanted full managerial control at a club with high ambitions and global stature.
Mixed Results and Uneven Form
Amorim’s tenure saw inconsistent results in the Premier League, with United struggling to maintain a clear identity on the pitch.
While the team showed flashes of promise, they failed to mount a serious title challenge or push strongly for Champions League qualification under his leadership.
What’s Next?
With the managerial vacancy now open, attention will turn to potential long‑term candidates to lead United forward.
Fans and pundits are already speculating about names linked to the job, while the club seeks stability after another managerial change.