Manchester United Sacks Ruben Amorim After 14 Months
Manchester United have terminated the contract of their head coach, Ruben Amorim, after a tumultuous 14-month tenure. The club announced the decision on Monday, January 5, 2026, citing the team's current sixth-place position in the Premier League as a key factor in their decision. The club hopes that this change will give the team the best opportunity to finish as high as possible in the Premier League.
Amorim's departure follows a 1-1 draw against Leeds United. This result appears to have been the final straw after a series of underwhelming performances and growing tensions behind the scenes.
Manchester United initially appointed Amorim in November 2024, hoping he would bring a fresh approach to the team. He led the team to the UEFA Europa League Final in Bilbao in May 2025. However, the team finished a disappointing 15th in the league during the previous season, recording their lowest points total since the 1973-74 season.
According to reports, a power struggle over transfer policy contributed to Amorim's dismissal. Amorim alluded to his frustration with the club's transfer plans in the build-up to the Leeds match. He stated that he came to Manchester United to be the manager, not just a coach, hinting at disagreements with the board. He also stated that he felt that for United to play a perfect 3-4-3 formation, they would need to spend a lot of money and time. He was starting to understand that this was not going to happen.
The club's leadership team, including chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, made the decision to sack Amorim after a breakdown in relations. Amorim's record at United was 24 wins, 18 draws, and 21 losses.
Darren Fletcher, the current under-18s coach and former Manchester United player, has been appointed as interim manager. Fletcher will take charge of the team for their upcoming game against Burnley on Wednesday.
The club has thanked Ruben for his contribution and wished him well in the future. The search for a permanent replacement is now underway as Manchester United look to regain their status as one of the top teams in the Premier League. The club will have to pay compensation to Amorim as part of his contract.
