Manchester United Part Ways with Coach Ruben Amorim Following Disappointing Season

In November 2024, Manchester United made the decision to part ways with Dutch coach Erik ten Hag, who had guided the team to victories in both the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup during his tenure in England. Subsequently, the club turned to Ruben Amorim, the former title-winning coach of Sporting, with the aim of restoring United’s former glories and positioning them as contenders for prestigious honors.

Despite leading the Red Devils to the Europa League final in 2025, Amorim’s first season concluded with a disappointing 15th-place finish in the league. Throughout the season, he remained steadfast in his belief that a 3-4-3 tactical system would yield the desired results, even as it became increasingly clear that the squad lacked the specialist players required to make this strategy effective.

Amorim publicly expressed his frustrations following a 1-1 draw with Leeds, criticizing those above him for insufficient support. This candidness prompted swift action from the club, leading to his dismissal less than 24 hours later. In a brief statement, Manchester United announced, “With the team currently sitting sixth in the Premier League, the club’s leadership has reluctantly decided that a change is necessary to maximize our chances of achieving the highest possible finish. We thank Ruben for his contributions and wish him well in his future endeavors.”

Sources indicate that there were no internal conflicts or ultimatums leading up to Amorim’s exit. He reportedly had the full backing of the club, including Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who had hoped to see him through the three-year project he initially undertook. However, the lack of visible progress ultimately necessitated decisive action.

The leadership at United remains optimistic about the potential of their young and talented squad, believing they are in a strong position to meet their objectives this season. The club maintains that strategic decisions are being made to support a committed group capable of achieving success.

There were suggestions that Amorim was dissatisfied with some of the recruitment decisions made in recent transfer windows, particularly regarding the focus on attacking reinforcements in the summer of 2025. United spent approximately £250 million ($337 million) during his tenure, asserting that they consistently aligned with the coach’s preferences.

Amorim was reportedly in agreement with the strategy to prioritize three forwards over a midfielder as they approached the 2025-26 campaign. The club is committed to long-term squad evolution, acquiring players deemed versatile enough to adapt to various tactical systems, rather than sticking strictly to the 3-4-3 formation preferred by Amorim.

Manchester United believes that, after extensive behind-the-scenes efforts, they now possess an expert leadership team capable of guiding the club to operate at the highest level. While the head coach position is crucial, the club emphasizes that no individual is above the collaborative approach that remains essential for future success. Plans for trophy bids and the construction of a new stadium are also underway.

With Amorim no longer part of this vision, the first-team responsibilities have been entrusted to Under-18s coach Darren Fletcher on an interim basis. Fletcher will lead the team during their upcoming match against Premier League strugglers Burnley on Wednesday.