In a stunning development on January 5, 2026, Manchester United have sacked head coach Ruben Amorim after just 14 months in charge. The Portuguese manager, who arrived from Sporting CP in November 2024 with high expectations, departs following a turbulent spell that saw the club struggle for consistency, culminating in growing tensions with the hierarchy over transfers and tactics.
Former Manchester United midfielder and current U18s coach Darren Fletcher has been placed in interim charge, with the team next facing Burnley in the Premier League.
Attention now turns to who will become the club’s next permanent manager as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS look to stabilize the Red Devils, who currently sit sixth in the Premier League table.
The club has installed a temporary solution while a longer-term plan is drawn up; reports indicate United are not expected to rush into a permanent hire before the summer.
Why Was Ruben Amorim Sacked?
Amorim’s dismissal comes less than 24 hours after a 1-1 draw against Leeds United, where he made explosive post-match comments criticizing the club’s structure.
The 40-year-old repeatedly emphasized that he joined to be the “manager” of Manchester United, not just the “head coach,” highlighting frustrations over limited control, particularly in the January transfer window.
Reports indicate a strained relationship with director of football Jason Wilcox and other senior figures, with disagreements over recruitment and tactical direction playing a key role.
Amorim’s side recorded the worst win ratio (32%) and defensive record among recent United bosses, despite reaching a Europa League final in May 2025.
The decision marks the latest chapter in United’s managerial instability since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013 – Amorim becomes the seventh permanent boss to depart in that period.
Manchester United Next Manager Top Candidates
With the managerial vacancy now open, bookmakers have quickly installed favorites. In the experienced Premier League names, high-profile internationals, and club legends.
Here are the leading contenders based on the latest markets (as of January 5, 2026):
- Oliver Glasner (Current Crystal Palace manager) – Early favorite at around 3/1 to 9/2
The Austrian has emerged as the No.1 target for United’s hierarchy, praised for his tactical acumen and success at Palace. His ability to organize defenses and implement attacking football makes him a strong fit. - Enzo Maresca (Recently departed Chelsea) – 6/4 to 5/1
The Italian, who reportedly stepped down from Chelsea on New Year’s Day, brings Pep Guardiola-influenced possession-based play and recent Premier League experience. - Darren Fletcher (Interim boss) – 2/1 to 5/1
The club legend could be considered for the permanent role if results improve under his temporary stewardship, though many expect him to remain interim. - Gareth Southgate – 8/1 to 12/1
The former England manager offers stability and man-management skills, with prior links to the United job. - Xavi Hernandez – 8/1 to 10/1
The Barcelona icon brings pedigree and a philosophy aligned with modern possession football.
Other notable names include:
- Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth) – 16/1
- Kieran McKenna (Ipswich Town, former United assistant) – 20/1
- Michael Carrick (Middlesbrough) – 16/1
Sources suggest United may appoint a caretaker for the remainder of the 2025-26 Premier League season before targeting a permanent hire in the summer.
What Happens Next for Man Utd?
The Red Devils face a pivotal few months. With the January transfer window open, the new interim setup under Fletcher will need quick impact. Fans and pundits alike are calling for a manager who can restore United’s identity while navigating the club’s revamped structure under INEOS.
Whoever takes the helm will inherit a talented but inconsistent squad, with pressure to deliver Champions League football and silverware. The search for Amorim’s successor is officially underway – expect more twists in this ongoing saga at Old Trafford.