Breaking: Ruben Amorim Sacked After Just 14 Months at Old Trafford
Manchester United shocked the football world on January 5, 2026, by sacking manager Ruben Amorim after only 14 months in charge. The Portuguese coach, who arrived with high expectations from Sporting CP in November 2024, leaves Old Trafford with the Red Devils sitting sixth in the Premier League and facing yet another managerial search. This marks the seventh managerial change since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013.
Former United midfielder Darren Fletcher has been appointed as interim manager and will take charge of the team, starting with Wednesday’s Premier League match against Burnley at Turf Moor. However, reports suggest Manchester United will wait until the summer to appoint a permanent replacement, giving the club time to conduct a thorough search for the right candidate. What do you think who will be the next manager of Manchester , Watch the live matches on Damitv.pro .
Why Was Ruben Amorim Fired From Manchester United?
Amorim’s dismissal came less than 24 hours after a controversial press conference following a 1-1 draw at Leeds United. The fiery Portuguese manager publicly criticized the club’s hierarchy, telling the scouting department and sporting director to “do their jobs” amid escalating tensions behind the scenes.
Key Factors Leading to Amorim’s Dismissal:
Poor Results and Record-Breaking Failures
- United finished 15th in the Premier League in the 2024-25 season, their lowest position since 1989-90
- Lost the 2025 Europa League final 1-0 to Tottenham Hotspur
- Suffered a shocking penalty shootout exit to League Two side Grimsby Town in the EFL Cup (12-11 on penalties after 2-2)
- Notorious quote calling the team “probably the worst team in the history” of Manchester United after a 3-1 home defeat to Brighton
Tactical Inflexibility Amorim’s rigid insistence on playing a 3-4-2-1 formation proved problematic. His unwillingness to adapt his tactical system became a major point of contention with Director of Football Jason Wilcox, who reportedly favored more flexible, possession-based football.
Player Relationship Issues
- High-profile fallouts with star players Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho
- Mishandling of academy talent, including incorrect public statements about youth players
- Distance from the squad and poor communication with senior players
Public Confrontations Amorim’s final press conference was the breaking point. His demand to be “the manager, not the coach” and public criticism of club executives made his position untenable, despite United sitting sixth in the current Premier League table.
Who Will Be Manchester United’s Next Manager? Top Candidates Ranked
1. Oliver Glasner
Current Role: Crystal Palace Manager
Age: 51
Nationality: Austrian
Oliver Glasner has emerged as the clear bookmakers’ favorite to replace Amorim, with his odds shortening dramatically since the sacking was announced. The Austrian manager has worked wonders at Crystal Palace, transforming them from relegation battlers into FA Cup champions.
Why Glasner Is the Top Choice:
- Trophy Success: Led Crystal Palace to their first-ever major trophy, winning the 2025 FA Cup by beating Manchester City at Wembley
- European Pedigree: Won the Europa League with Eintracht Frankfurt in 2021-22
- Tactical Flexibility: Uses a 3-4-2-1 system like Amorim but shows much greater adaptability
- Player Development: Has significantly improved players like Jean-Philippe Mateta and Adam Wharton
- Personality Fit: Known for calm authority and clear communication, unlike Amorim’s distant approach
- Contract Situation: Reportedly unwilling to sign a new deal at Palace, with his current contract expiring in summer 2026
Potential Obstacles: Palace’s reluctance to lose their successful manager mid-season may require United to pay significant compensation. However, Glasner’s frustrations with Palace’s transfer backing could make the move attractive.
What United Sources Say: Reports from The Telegraph claim United’s hierarchy are “huge admirers” of Glasner’s work and view him as their “top target” for a permanent appointment.
2. Darren Fletcher
Current Role: Manchester United Under-18s Coach (Now Interim First Team Manager)
Age: 42
Nationality: Scottish
Fletcher is the safe interim choice and has the advantage of already being at the club. The former United midfielder made over 200 appearances for the Red Devils and understands the club’s culture intimately.
Pros:
- Knows the club inside out
- Has strong relationships with academy players
- Low-risk temporary solution
- Could become permanent if successful, similar to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s path
Cons:
- No senior management experience – Only coached at Under-18 level
- Unproven at the highest level
- May lack the tactical sophistication required for Premier League competition
- Risk of repeating the Solskjaer mistake
Realistic Assessment: Fletcher is highly unlikely to get the permanent job unless he produces extraordinary results over the next few months. His appointment appears designed to buy time for a proper summer recruitment process.
3. Enzo Maresca
Current Role: Unemployed (Recently sacked by Chelsea)
Age: 45
Nationality: Italian
Enzo Maresca was the initial betting favorite after being sacked by Chelsea on New Year’s Day 2026, just days before Amorim’s dismissal. The Italian won major silverware with Chelsea but left under a cloud of disagreement with the club hierarchy.
Achievements:
- Won the UEFA Conference League with Chelsea
- Won the FIFA Club World Cup with Chelsea
- Experience working under Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola as U23s coach
Why He Could Work:
- City Connections: United’s key decision-makers (CEO Omar Berrada and Director of Football Jason Wilcox) both worked at Manchester City and know Maresca well
- Available Immediately: No compensation required
- Trophy Pedigree: Knows how to win silverware
Why He Might Not Work:
- Just failed at another “Big Six” club in similar circumstances to Amorim
- Public falling out with Chelsea hierarchy raises concerns about personality fit
- Reportedly interested in the Manchester City job when Pep Guardiola departs
- Questions about whether he should take another high-pressure job so soon
Latest Reports: Early contacts between Maresca and Manchester United have reportedly been positive, suggesting genuine mutual interest.
4. Gareth Southgate
Current Role: Unemployed (Former England Manager)
Age: 54
Nationality: English
Former England manager Gareth Southgate has been linked with the Manchester United job multiple times. He left the England role after Euro 2024 and has been out of management since.
Pros:
- Extensive experience managing high-pressure situations
- Led England to Euro 2024 final and 2018 World Cup semi-final
- Strong man-management skills
- English and understands Premier League culture
Cons:
- No club management since 2009 (Middlesbrough)
- Criticized for overly defensive, negative tactics with England
- Underachieved with talented England squads
- May lack the attacking philosophy United desire
- Trophy cabinet: 2 League Cups (Aston Villa and Middlesbrough)
Realistic Prospects: While Southgate has the experience and availability, his defensive approach and lack of recent club management may not align with United’s vision for exciting, attacking football.
5. Julian Nagelsmann
Current Role: Germany National Team Manager
Age: 38
Nationality: German
One of European football’s most exciting young managers, Nagelsmann is contracted to Germany until 2028 but reportedly has a clause allowing him to take a club job after the 2026 World Cup.
Why He’s Attractive:
- Brilliant tactical mind with innovative approaches
- Success at RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich
- Young, energetic, and forward-thinking
- Experience at top clubs in competitive environment
The Timing Issue: Nagelsmann will lead Germany at the 2026 World Cup (June-July), making him unavailable until August at the earliest. United would need to use an interim manager for the entire remainder of the current season and potentially miss out on him if another club swoops in first.
Verdict: If United are willing to wait and can secure an agreement, Nagelsmann would be an outstanding appointment. However, the timing complications make this challenging.
6. Thomas Tuchel – The Champions League Winner
Current Role: England National Team Manager
Age: 52
Nationality: German
Thomas Tuchel is another German manager tied to a national team role, having taken charge of England ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Like Nagelsmann, he would only be available after the tournament.
Impressive CV:
- Champions League winner with Chelsea (2021)
- Multiple domestic titles in Germany and France
- Proven ability to improve players
- Strong tactical acumen
Concerns:
- Difficult personality – Known for conflicts with club hierarchies at PSG, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich
- Poor track record of longevity – Never stays long at any club
- United specifically want stability after six failed appointments
Analysis: While Tuchel’s CV is excellent, his combative nature and tendency to clash with management could repeat Amorim’s mistakes. United’s leadership may be hesitant to hire another manager with personality concerns.
7. Unai Emery – The Overachiever
Current Role: Aston Villa Manager
Age: 53
Nationality: Spanish
Unai Emery has turned Aston Villa into genuine title contenders and Champions League regulars. His achievements on a smaller budget make him highly attractive.
Track Record:
- Multiple Europa League wins
- Transformed Villa from relegation candidates to top-four challengers
- Consistent overachiever who exceeds expectations
- Master tactician with flexible approach
The Villa Factor: Emery is settled at Villa, enjoys autonomy, and has the backing of ambitious ownership. Villa will fight hard to keep him, and United may not be able to offer the same level of control he currently enjoys.
Reality Check: While Emery would be an excellent appointment, convincing him to leave Villa mid-project seems unlikely. A summer move might be more realistic if Villa’s form dips.
8. Roberto De Zerbi – The Creative
Current Role: Marseille Manager
Age: 45
Nationality: Italian
De Zerbi impressed greatly during his time at Brighton and was actually interviewed by Manchester United in summer 2024 before they gave Erik ten Hag a new contract. He moved to Marseille in June 2025.
Why United Like Him:
- Beautiful, attacking football philosophy
- Excellent player development record
- Still has “huge admiration” from United hierarchy
- Previously interested in the job
Current Situation: De Zerbi is rebuilding Marseille and may not want to abandon another project so quickly. However, sources suggest he remains open to a Premier League return.
9. Mauricio Pochettino – The Dream That Got Away
Current Role: USA National Team Manager
Age: 52
Nationality: Argentine
Pochettino was reportedly recommended for the United job back in 2016, but the Glazer family chose Jose Mourinho instead. He’s now preparing the USA for a home World Cup in 2026.
Why He Was Wanted:
- Proven Premier League success at Tottenham
- Strong player development
- Attacking philosophy
- Experience at top clubs (Spurs, PSG, Chelsea)
Current Obstacles:
- Committed to USA through World Cup 2026
- Would require compensation and permission
- Similar timing issues to Nagelsmann and Tuchel
Other Names in the Betting Markets:
Kieran McKenna (Ipswich Town) – 14/1
Former United coach who knows the club well. Building impressive reputation at Ipswich.
Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth) – 16/1
High-octane football that would suit Old Trafford. Recently linked with Liverpool and Spurs jobs.
Xavi Hernandez (Unemployed) – Various odds
Barcelona legend currently out of management. Rumored to be waiting for the right project.
Marco Silva (Fulham) – 20/1
Doing solid work at Fulham but lacks experience at elite level.
Zinedine Zidane (Unemployed) – 25/1+
The dream appointment, but Fabrizio Romano reports Zidane has a verbal agreement to become France manager after the 2026 World Cup. Not happening.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (Unemployed) – 5/1
The nostalgic return? Some bookmakers have him surprisingly short, suggesting a possible interim role.
Michael Carrick (Unemployed) – 12/1
Another former United midfielder who could return in a caretaker capacity.
Manchester United’s Managerial Search Strategy
The Summer Plan
According to trusted journalist David Ornstein, Manchester United will not appoint a permanent manager until summer 2026. This strategy aims to:
- Avoid rushed decisions – Learn from past mistakes of panic appointments
- Access more candidates – Target managers currently employed elsewhere
- Complete proper due diligence – Thoroughly assess candidates’ suitability
- Allow time for negotiation – Get the best possible deal and contract terms
What United Are Looking For
After six failed post-Ferguson appointments, United’s leadership has specific criteria for the next manager:
Must-Have Qualities:
- Flexibility: Not wedded to one formation or system
- Communication Skills: Ability to work with modern football hierarchy
- Premier League Experience: Understanding English football’s unique pressures
- Personality: Confident but not confrontational; able to handle criticism
- Player Development: Track record of improving players
- Attacking Football: Must play entertaining, forward-thinking football
Red Flags to Avoid:
- Tactical inflexibility (Amorim, Van Gaal)
- Too confrontational (Mourinho)
- Lack of gravitas (Moyes, Solskjaer)
- Inability to handle pressure (Ten Hag, Amorim)
The INEOS Vision
Since Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS group took control of football operations, United have implemented a new structure:
- CEO: Omar Berrada (formerly Manchester City)
- Director of Football: Jason Wilcox (formerly Manchester City)
- Technical Director: Dan Ashworth (formerly Newcastle, England)
This trio favors:
- Data-driven decision making
- Possession-based football
- Player development focus
- Sustainable long-term planning
Their ideal manager would be a “head coach” working within this structure, rather than a traditional all-powerful “manager.” This is why Glasner appeals – he’s shown he can work collaboratively while maintaining his vision.
What Went Wrong With United’s Recent Managers?
Understanding past failures helps explain what United need next:
Erik ten Hag (2022-2024)
- Problem: Stubborn tactics, poor transfers, lost player confidence
- Lesson: Need someone who can adapt and work with recruitment team
Ruben Amorim (2024-2026)
- Problem: Tactical rigidity, player conflicts, public confrontations
- Lesson: Communication skills and flexibility are essential
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (2018-2021)
- Problem: Nice guy but tactically limited, no plan B
- Lesson: Need tactical sophistication alongside personality
Jose Mourinho (2016-2018)
- Problem: Toxic atmosphere, outdated methods, player conflicts
- Lesson: Personality matters but must be constructive
Louis van Gaal (2014-2016)
- Problem: Boring football, stubborn philosophy
- Lesson: Must prioritize entertainment alongside results
David Moyes (2013-2014)
- Problem: Overwhelmed by job size, lacked confidence
- Lesson: Need manager with big-club experience
How Will United’s Managerial Change Affect Their Season?
Current League Position
Manchester United currently sit 6th in the Premier League with 29 points from 20 games. They’re fighting for:
- Champions League qualification (Top 4)
- Europa League qualification (5th place)
Remaining Season Outlook
With Darren Fletcher or an interim manager in charge, United face challenges:
Immediate Fixtures:
- Burnley (A) – January 8
- Newcastle (H) – January 11
- Arsenal (A) – January 15
Key Questions:
- Can an interim manager secure top-four finish?
- Will players respond positively to change?
- Can United avoid another mid-table finish?
Transfer Window Implications
January 2026 transfer window closes January 31. With an interim manager, United face difficult decisions:
- Should they back a temporary manager with new signings?
- Will players want to join a club in transition?
- Do they focus on summer targets instead?
What Do Manchester United Fans Want?
Social media and fan forums reveal United supporters’ priorities:
Top Fan Demands:
- Attacking Football – Entertainment over dour results
- Youth Development – Give academy players chances
- Stability – Stop the managerial merry-go-round
- Modern Tactics – Progressive, possession-based approach
- Personality – Manager who embraces the club’s history
Fan Reactions to Top Candidates:
Oliver Glasner: Generally positive. Fans appreciate his attacking style and success with limited resources. Concerns about whether Palace success translates to United.
Enzo Maresca: Mixed. Some excited by his City connections and recent trophies; others worried about his Chelsea failure and personality clashes.
Gareth Southgate: Overwhelmingly negative. Fans fear his defensive approach and lack of recent club experience.
Thomas Tuchel: Split opinion. Champions League pedigree appeals, but concern about his short tenure everywhere.
Expert Predictions: Who Will Actually Get the Job?
Most Likely Scenario (60% probability):
Oliver Glasner appointed in summer 2026
- United negotiate deal with Crystal Palace in spring
- Fletcher or another interim manages remainder of season
- Glasner starts fresh for 2026-27 campaign
Alternative Scenario (25% probability):
Enzo Maresca joins before season end
- United’s hierarchy push for someone with Man City DNA
- Maresca’s immediate availability proves too tempting
- Given until end of season to prove himself
Dark Horse Scenario (10% probability):
Darren Fletcher earns permanent role
- Stunning turnaround under Fletcher’s leadership
- Achieves top-four finish against odds
- Gets job permanently in Solskjaer-style appointment
Wildcard Scenario (5% probability):
Completely unexpected name emerges
- United pivot to different profile entirely
- Target not currently in betting markets
- Left-field appointment shocks football world
When Will Manchester United Announce Their New Manager?
Expected Timeline:
January 2026:
- Darren Fletcher interim manager
- Club begins discreet approach to candidates
- No permanent appointment expected
February-April 2026:
- Negotiations with preferred candidate(s)
- Possible second interim if Fletcher struggles
- Due diligence and contract discussions
May-June 2026:
- Official announcement expected
- New manager attends final games of season
- Begin planning for summer transfer window
July 2026:
- New manager officially starts work
- Pre-season training begins
- First competitive matches (Community Shield, etc.)
What This Means for Manchester United’s Future
Short-Term Impact (2025-26 Season):
- Top Four: Unlikely but possible with good interim
- Trophy Chances: Minimal with disruption mid-season
- Player Morale: Could improve with fresh voice
- Transfer Activity: Minimal until permanent manager arrives
Medium-Term Impact (2026-27 Season):
- New Manager Bounce: Expected improvement
- Transfer Spending: Significant investment anticipated
- Style of Play: Dramatic shift depending on appointment
- Expectations: Realistic target is top-four challenge
Long-Term Impact (Beyond 2027):
- Stability: Crucial they get this appointment right
- Title Challenge: 2027-28 earliest realistic timeline
- Youth Development: Depends heavily on manager philosophy
- Club Culture: Opportunity to establish new identity
Expert Analysis: What Makes This Decision So Critical?
Manchester United cannot afford another failed appointment. This marks the seventh managerial change since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 – more than any other top club in that period.
Why This Time Must Be Different:
Financial Pressure: United have spent over ยฃ1.5 billion on transfers since Ferguson left, with minimal return. They need stability to maximize their investment.
Competitive Landscape: The Premier League has never been more competitive. Liverpool, Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea, and even Newcastle and Aston Villa are all strong. United risk becoming a mid-table club permanently.
Fan Patience: Support is wearing thin. Fans have backed every appointment initially, but patience evaporates quickly without results. The next manager gets less grace period than previous appointments.
Commercial Impact: United’s global brand relies on success. Continued failure affects:
- Sponsorship deals
- Merchandise sales
- Player attraction
- Fan engagement
- Share price and valuation
Conclusion: Manchester United at a Crossroads
The dismissal of Ruben Amorim represents both crisis and opportunity for Manchester United. After six failed appointments since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement, the club must break the cycle and finally get this decision right.
Oliver Glasner emerges as the sensible favorite – a proven winner with tactical flexibility, player development credentials, and the personality to handle one of football’s biggest jobs. His success at Crystal Palace despite limited resources suggests he can thrive at United with proper backing.
However, United have surprised before. Whether they choose Glasner, Maresca, Emery, or someone else entirely, the next appointment will define the club’s trajectory for years to come.
One thing is certain: Manchester United fans, players, and stakeholders worldwide are watching closely. The seventh managerial appointment post-Ferguson must be the one that finally works.
The search for the next Manchester United manager isn’t just about finding someone to win matches – it’s about finding someone to restore the club’s identity, rebuild its culture, and return it to the pinnacle of English and European football.
Who do you think should be Manchester United’s next manager? The debate rages on, and we’ll know the answer in the coming months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When was Ruben Amorim sacked by Manchester United?
A: Ruben Amorim was dismissed as Manchester United manager on January 5, 2026, after 14 months in charge.
Q: Who is Manchester United’s interim manager?
A: Darren Fletcher, the club’s Under-18s coach and former United midfielder, has been appointed as interim manager.
Q: Who is the favorite to be Manchester United’s next permanent manager?
A: Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is the current betting favorite at odds of 2/1 to 5/2.
Q: When will Manchester United appoint a permanent manager?
A: Reports suggest United will wait until summer 2026 to make a permanent appointment, taking time to conduct a thorough search.
Q: Why did Manchester United sack Ruben Amorim?
A: Amorim was dismissed due to poor results, tactical inflexibility, player relationship issues, and a public confrontation with club hierarchy after a match at Leeds United.
Q: How many managers has Manchester United had since Sir Alex Ferguson?
A: Amorim was the seventh managerial change since Ferguson retired in 2013, including both permanent and interim appointments.
Q: Will Manchester United qualify for Champions League this season?
A: United currently sit 6th in the Premier League. Champions League qualification is possible but will be challenging with an interim manager.
Q: Who are the other candidates besides Oliver Glasner?
A: Leading candidates include Enzo Maresca (recently sacked by Chelsea), Gareth Southgate (former England manager), Julian Nagelsmann (Germany manager), Thomas Tuchel (England manager), and Unai Emery (Aston Villa).
Q: What went wrong with Ruben Amorim at Manchester United?
A: Amorim’s rigid 3-4-2-1 tactical system, poor results (finishing 15th last season), player conflicts, and public criticism of club executives led to his dismissal.
Q: Could Darren Fletcher become permanent Manchester United manager?
A: While possible, it’s unlikely. Fletcher lacks senior management experience and is viewed primarily as a caretaker solution until a permanent appointment is made.