Manchester United have confirmed the departure of Ruben Amorim as Head Coach, bringing an abrupt end to his 14 month spell at Old Trafford following an explosive breakdown in relations with the club’s hierarchy.
In a statement released on Monday, the club said: “Ruben Amorim has departed his role as Head Coach of Manchester United.” The statement added that Amorim, who was appointed in November 2024, “led the team to a UEFA Europa League Final in Bilbao in May.”
Despite United sitting sixth in the Premier League, the club’s leadership said a change was necessary. “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,” the statement said, noting the move would “give the team the best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish.”
Amorim’s dismissal follows a remarkable post-match press conference after Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Leeds, where he openly challenged the club’s structure and authority. Asked about his relationship with the board, he said: “Guys, stop with that, and I noticed that you received selective information about everything. I came here to be the manager of Manchester United, not to be the coach of Manchester United. That is clear.”
He added: “I’m not going to quit. I will do my job until other guy is coming here to replace me.”
The Athletic reported that United acted swiftly after the comments, ending Amorim’s tenure less than 24 hours later. He leaves having won 24 of his 63 matches in charge, after overseeing a difficult debut season that included a 15th place league finish and defeat to Tottenham in the Europa League final.
Tensions had been building for weeks, with Amorim publicly expressing frustration over transfer strategy and squad limitations. On Christmas Eve, he admitted: “I have the feeling that if we have to play a perfect 3-4-3 we need to spend a lot of money and need time. I’m starting to understand that is not going to happen so maybe I have to adapt.”
Manchester United said: “The club would like to thank Ruben for his contribution to the club and wishes him well for the future.” Darren Fletcher will take charge of the team for Wednesday’s Premier League clash against Burnley as the search for a permanent successor begins.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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