In a decisive move, Manchester United has terminated the contract of head coach Ruben Amorim, concluding his turbulent 14-month tenure at the club. The decision comes amidst public tensions between the Portuguese manager and the club’s hierarchy, culminating in a mutual separation less than 24 hours after Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Leeds United.
The club announced that former midfielder and current under-18s coach Darren Fletcher will assume temporary managerial duties, beginning with Wednesday’s Premier League clash against Burnley. Fletcher, a decorated former player with five Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy to his name, will serve as interim manager until a caretaker coach is appointed for the remainder of the season.
United’s leadership stated the dismissal was made ‘reluctantly’ but necessary to maximize the team’s chances of achieving the highest possible league finish. The club currently sits sixth in the Premier League standings, with sources indicating concerns about insufficient evidence of progress under Amorim’s leadership.
The 40-year-old manager’s departure follows months of strained relations with club officials, particularly regarding transfer market support. Amorim had recently hinted at his dissatisfaction, suggesting he wouldn’t receive full backing in player acquisitions and expressing his desire to work as a manager ‘not just a coach.’
Amorim’s coaching staff have also left the club alongside the manager. His record of 25 wins from 63 games marks the shortest reign of a permanent United manager since David Moyes’ dismissal in 2014. The club plans to appoint a permanent successor during the summer transfer window.