Ruben Amorim appeared a world away from the tense figure fans saw on Sunday as he stepped out of his Cheshire home on Monday afternoon.
Wearing sunglasses and a broad smile, he was accompanied by his wife, Maria Joao Diogo, just hours after being dismissed as Manchester United manager.
While the club cited poor results, sources suggest the decision had been finalized two days before United’s draw at Leeds. Amorim, 40, had been seen leaving the training ground joking with his coaching staff, despite the sudden announcement.
The Final Straw: Frustration at the Club
Amorim’s relationship with United’s hierarchy had been strained for months. Following a 1-1 draw against Wolves, he reportedly clashed with Director of Football Jason Wilcox over the direction of the team.
Amorim preferred a three-central-defender setup, but the club’s executives wanted a more attacking style, believing the squad—strengthened by £250 million of summer signings—could handle it.
When that message failed to resonate, tensions boiled over. Reports indicate that Amorim’s outburst after the Leeds draw only accelerated a decision already made behind the scenes.
Darren Fletcher Takes Over as Caretaker
In the immediate aftermath, former United midfielder Darren Fletcher has been appointed caretaker manager. He will lead the team for Wednesday’s Premier League trip to Burnley and the FA Cup tie against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Players were informed of Amorim’s departure soon after the decision. The club confirmed that Ruben Amorim had guided the team to the UEFA Europa League final in May 2025 but ultimately fell short in the Premier League, leaving United sixth after 14 turbulent months.
A Career of Highs and Lows at Old Trafford
Amorim arrived at Old Trafford in November 2024 from Sporting Lisbon with a reputation as a tactical innovator. Yet his tenure was marked by setbacks, including the infamous Carabao Cup defeat to Grimsby Town, where footage of him using coaching magnets made headlines.
Despite these challenges, Amorim was clear about his role, stating he was at United to be the manager, not just a coach. His post-match comments after Leeds hinted at a wider rift with the club’s leadership and a frustration over how decisions were made.
Transfers, Squad Changes, and Tactical Challenges
During his time in charge, Amorim oversaw a £250 million recruitment drive, bringing in forwards Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo.
However, he faced criticism for a perceived lack of backing in the transfer window, with United’s only realistic target being Antoine Semenyo, who is now set to join rivals City.
While Amorim had approved the summer acquisitions, sources say the squad’s setup—optimized for his 3-4-2-1 system—will likely be adaptable under a new manager.
The club’s leadership believes a managerial change now gives the team the best chance to return to European competition next season.
What’s Next for Manchester United?
The club has already started eyeing potential replacements, with odds courtesy of Paddy Power highlighting candidates such as Enzo Maresca, Oliver Glasner, Xavi, and Gareth Southgate, among others.
While no long-term appointment is expected immediately, United’s board is focused on stability and performance for the remainder of the season.
Amorim was officially notified on Monday morning in a meeting with Wilcox and CEO Omar Berrada, with the full support of the board and Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
His severance package remains unclear, though previous reports suggested a potential payout of £12 million if dismissed before November 1.
Looking Ahead: Flexibility for a New Manager
Despite the squad being tailored to Amorim’s tactical style, insiders insist the team has the flexibility to adapt to new methods.
United are prioritizing results in the Premier League, aiming for European qualification and setting the stage for whoever takes over next season.
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