Amorim’s Post-Match Outburst Raises Doubts About Future at Manchester United

Ruben Amorim, who has faced challenges with consistency during his tenure as manager of Manchester United, delivered a candid and explosive post-match press conference after the team drew 1-1 with Leeds at Elland Road.

In his remarks, Amorim expressed a desire for greater power and authority, indicating his intention to leave Old Trafford upon the completion of his contract in 2027, regardless of future developments. According to reports from talkSPORT, these statements have not been well-received by the United board.

During a passionate address to reporters, Amorim made it clear that he views himself as the manager, not merely the head coach, stating, “I came here to be the manager of Manchester United, not to be the head coach. I understand that my name is not [Antonio] Conte, [Thomas] Tuchel, or [Jose] Mourinho, but I hold the position of manager here. This will continue for the next 18 months, or until the board chooses to make a change. I won’t resign; I will fulfill my responsibilities until someone else takes over.”

He elaborated, “I want to emphasize that I’m committed to being the manager of this team, not just a coach. I was clear about this from the beginning, and in 18 months, we will all progress. That is my role, and it is not merely to coach. If we can’t handle external criticisms, we must reevaluate our approach. My intent is to manage effectively, and I expect all departments, including scouting and the sporting director, to perform their roles as I do mine for the next 18 months.”

Sources close to United report that Amorim’s relationship with director of football Jason Wilcox has become strained, complicating his long-term prospects at the club. Tensions reportedly escalated after Wilcox advised Amorim to adopt a more adaptable tactical strategy, particularly in light of criticism directed at his preferred 3-4-3 formation.

Amorim’s commitment to completing his contract is now uncertain, with indications suggesting that if a power struggle arises between him and Wilcox, chief executive Omar Berrada may favor backing Wilcox. Having taken over at Old Trafford in November 2024, Amorim is believed to feel that promised transfers have not materialized, leading to a quiet January transfer window for United.

The manager had aimed to secure a proven Premier League striker, such as Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, but was instead allocated £74 million ($99 million) Slovenian forward Benjamin Sesko. Additionally, Amorim expressed interest in Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, who has a £65 million ($87 million) release clause, but it seems he may join Manchester City instead.

United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe previously suggested that Amorim should be granted the entirety of his three-year contract to demonstrate his capabilities and reinvigorate a team that faltered last season, finishing outside European qualification.

However, there are now noted concerns within the Old Trafford boardroom regarding Amorim’s performance, as he has achieved only 24 wins in 63 matches, with 21 defeats during his tenure. Given Chelsea’s swift decision to part ways with Maresca after public dissent, it appears that Manchester United might soon consider searching for a new manager, particularly as the team currently sits sixth in the league and risks further decline without stability on and off the field.