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The Old Trafford club have parted ways with manager their Portuguese head coach after a little over a year in charge. The decision comes following a reported power struggle over transfer policy and even with the team's unbeaten run.

The Final Straw

Tensions between Amorim and the club's football department, particularly director of football the recruitment chief, had been fracturing for weeks. The decisive moment is believed to have been comments made by Amorim following the recent 1-1 draw with their rivals. He is said to have told the recruitment team to "fulfill their responsibilities," underscoring 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 among the elite names 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 Disappointing Spell

On paper, the Portuguese manager's time at Old Trafford was poor. He leaves with a record of victories of under 40% and a points-per-game average of just 1.24 in the top flight. The team lost more games than it won in the calendar year 2025.

Interestingly, his final games showed some resilience. United were defeated only once of his last eight matches and currently sit sixth in the standings, just three points off the coveted 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)

Official Statement

In its official communication, the club framed 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."

What Comes Next?

In the short term, former player the Scot will take charge on an temporary basis. He is scheduled to be in the technical area for the upcoming league fixture against Burnley.

For the long-term position, bookmakers and analysts are suggesting a range of possible successors. Names being linked include Spanish tactician Xavi, Oliver Glasner, Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate, and Enzo Maresca.

Fan and Pundit Reaction

The sacking has generated debate among supporters and commentators. Some cite the poor performances and style as valid reasons, while others argue the ownership and directors must bear a large responsibility for instability.

A perspective suggests: "{Between the consistently bad performances and results, the very low win ratio and the inflexible approach, he has no one else to blame but himself... INEOS 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."

A counter-argument states: "It seems crazy to blame results when United are joint fifth in the table... They’ve beaten Liverpool, Chelsea... and have lost only twice since 1 October. Just watching them you can see they’re a better team than last year."

The hunt for a new manager and the pursuit for stability at Manchester United begins anew.