Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jan 5: Manchester United on Monday dismissed head coach Ruben Amorim following a disappointing run of results, with the final straw coming in the form of a 1-1 draw against Leeds United at Elland Road on Sunday. Former United midfielder Darren Fletcher is expected to step in as interim manager.
Confirming the decision, the club said the change was made with the aim of improving United’s league position. “Ruben Amorim has departed his role as Head Coach of Manchester United,” the club said in a statement. “Appointed in November 2024, Ruben guided the team to the UEFA Europa League Final in Bilbao in May. However, with the club currently sixth in the Premier League, the leadership has reluctantly concluded that a change is necessary to maximise our chances of achieving the highest possible finish this season.”
The club thanked Amorim for his service and wished him well for the future, adding that Darren Fletcher will take charge of the team for Wednesday’s league fixture against Burnley.
Fletcher, a United academy graduate, enjoyed a long playing career at Old Trafford between 2002 and 2015 and has remained closely associated with the club since retiring. He has worked in several coaching and backroom roles, including as part of the first-team staff under Ole Gunnar Solskjær in 2021, and currently serves as head coach of the club’s Under-18 side. As a player, Fletcher won five Premier League titles under Sir Alex Ferguson and was a member of the squad that lifted the Champions League in 2008.
Amorim, who arrived with a strong reputation after a successful spell at Sporting, struggled to translate his ideas consistently to the Premier League. He remained committed to his preferred 3-4-2-1 system despite signs that alternative approaches might better suit the squad. While there were flashes of progress, United’s performances were frequently undermined by costly lapses, including dropped points at home against struggling opposition.
Tensions appeared to surface publicly after Sunday’s draw, when Amorim delivered an emotional post-match address in which he stressed his authority over the team and hinted at frustrations with the club’s leadership structure. The comments added to speculation that his position had become increasingly untenable.
With Fletcher now set to take temporary charge, United will look for a lift in form as they attempt to salvage their Premier League campaign.