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The Old Trafford club have terminated the contract of manager their Portuguese head coach after just 14 months in charge. The decision comes following a growing power struggle over recruitment strategy and even with the team's improved league position.

What Sparked the Decision

The relationship between Amorim and the club's hierarchy, particularly director of football the recruitment chief, had been strained for weeks. The immediate catalyst is believed to have been comments made by Amorim following the recent 1-1 draw with their rivals. He publicly told the recruitment team to "focus on their duties," highlighting a fundamental rift.

"I was hired as the manager of Manchester United – not to be the coach. That is clear. I know my name is not Tuchel, Mourinho or Conte but I’m the manager. It’s going to be like this for 18 months or until the board decide to change. I’m not going to quit, I will do my job until another guy is coming here to replace me."

A Miserable Tenure

By the numbers, the Portuguese manager's time at the club was difficult. He leaves with a win ratio of under 40% and a league points average of just 1.24 in the Premier League. The team lost more games than it won in the calendar year 2025.

However, his final games showed some resilience. United lost just one of his final eight matches and currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, just three points off the prized Champions League spots.

The Last Five Matches

• 4-4 draw vs Bournemouth (Home)
• 2-1 loss vs Aston Villa (Away)
• 1-0 win vs Newcastle United (Home)
• 1-1 draw vs Wolverhampton Wanderers (Home)
• 1-1 draw vs Leeds United (Away)

United's Position

In its statement, the club presented the decision as one aimed at achieving the highest league finish.

"With Manchester United sitting sixth in the Premier League, the club’s leadership has reluctantly made the decision that it is the right time to make a change. This will give the team the best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish. The club would like to thank Ruben for his contribution to the club and wishes him well for the future."

Looking Ahead

In the immediate aftermath, former player Darren Fletcher will assume control on an caretaker basis. He is scheduled to be in the dugout for the upcoming league fixture against Burnley.

For the permanent role, bookmakers and analysts are speculating a range of potential candidates. Names being linked include Spanish tactician Xavi, Oliver Glasner, Three Lions manager Southgate, and another promising coach.

Fan and Pundit Reaction

The sacking has sparked divided opinion among the fanbase and commentators. Some cite the underwhelming performances and style as justification, while others believe the ownership and directors must bear a large responsibility for instability.

A perspective suggests: "{Between the generally poor performances and results, the rather abhorrent win ratio and the inflexible approach, he has no one else to blame but himself... The ownership and their ‘best-in-class’ claims should, however, feel a large brunt of the fan’s rage; this was a farce from start to finish."

An alternative take states: "It seems unreasonable to blame results when the team are joint fifth in the table... They’ve beaten top sides... and have lost only twice since 1 October. Just watching them you can see they’re a improved side than last year."

The hunt for a permanent successor and the quest for stability at Manchester United begins anew.