Manchester United have terminated the contract of head coach Rúben Amorim, bringing an end to his 14‑month tenure at Old Trafford amid mounting tensions with the club’s leadership and unsatisfactory results on the pitch.
The club confirmed the decision on Monday, abruptly dismissing the Portuguese coach after a tenure marked by strategic disagreements with sporting directors and underperformance relative to expectations.
Reports indicate that friction over transfer policy and autonomy in football decisions played a significant role in the breakdown of relations between Amorim and United’s hierarchy.
Amorim, who arrived at United in November 2024 with a strong reputation earned from his success at Sporting CP, leaves with a mixed record.
During his time in charge, the club endured its lowest league finish in decades and suffered disappointment in European competition, including a loss in the Europa League final.
Heavy summer investment in new signings failed to translate into consistent progress, adding to pressure on the coaching staff.
Sources close to the club suggest that the rift widened after Amorim publicly questioned the level of support from the board in strengthening the squad and asserted his desire to operate with full managerial authority, comments that reportedly strained his working relationship with directors of football and senior executives.
In the immediate aftermath of the decision, United have appointed Darren Fletcher as interim head coach while they commence a search for a permanent successor.
The club is expected to prioritise candidates with Premier League experience as it seeks to stabilise performance and rebuild confidence among supporters.
Supporters and pundits have responded with a mixture of relief and concern, underscoring the turbulent period United have endured since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson more than a decade ago.
The challenge for the club’s board now will be to translate leadership changes into improved results on the field ahead of the critical second half of the season.