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The Old Trafford club have terminated the contract of manager their Portuguese head coach after a little over a year in charge. The announcement comes amid a growing clash over transfer policy and even with the team's improved league position.

What Sparked the Decision

Relations between Amorim and the club's leadership, specifically director of football Jason Wilcox, had been deteriorating for some time. The decisive moment is believed to have been public remarks made by Amorim after the recent 1-1 draw with their rivals. He is said to have told the recruitment team to "fulfill their responsibilities," underscoring a clear disconnect.

"I came here to be 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

By the numbers, the Portuguese manager's time at Old Trafford was difficult. He departs with a record of victories of less than 39 per cent and a points-per-game average of 1.24 in the Premier League. The team lost more games than it won in the calendar year 2025.

Interestingly, his last matches in charge showed a slight improvement. United lost just one of his final eight matches and currently sit sixth in the standings, just a narrow margin off the prized Champions League spots.

End of an Era Results

• 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)

United's Position

In its official communication, the club presented the decision as one aimed at achieving the best possible seasonal position.

"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 immediate aftermath, former player Darren Fletcher will take charge on an temporary basis. He is expected to be in the dugout for the upcoming league fixture against the Clarets.

For the permanent role, bookmakers and pundits are suggesting a range of potential candidates. Names in the frame include Spanish tactician Xavi, the Austrian manager, Three Lions manager Gareth Southgate, and another promising coach.

Fan and Pundit Reaction

The sacking has sparked mixed reactions among supporters and commentators. Some point to the underwhelming performances and style as justification, 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 beginning to end."

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

The search for a new manager and the pursuit for stability at Old Trafford begins anew.