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THE RED DEVIL REVOLUTION: Amorim Out, Who’s Next?

The “Theatre of Dreams” has turned into a theatre of drama once again. Ruben Amorim has been relieved of his duties as Manchester United manager.

Following a series of underwhelming results—culminating in a frustrating 1-1 draw against Leeds United—and an explosive post-match press conference where he challenged the club’s hierarchy, the board has reportedly decided to pull the trigger. Amorim’s insistence on being a “manager” rather than a “head coach” seems to have been the final straw for INEOS and director of football Jason Wilcox.


The Amorim Era: By The Numbers

Despite the hype following his arrival from Sporting CP, the statistics tell a story of inconsistency.

StatPerformance
Win Percentage39.7%
Points Per Match1.43
Preferred Formation3-4-2-1
Key SigningMatheus Cunha

The Shortlist: Who Takes the Reins?

With the January transfer window open and the season hanging in the balance, Manchester United cannot afford a long, drawn-out search. Here are the leading candidates to step into the hottest seat in world football:

1. Oliver Glasner (The Frontrunner)

The Crystal Palace boss has seen his stock soar after leading the Eagles to an FA Cup triumph. He is considered a “safe pair of hands” by many in the United hierarchy and already utilizes a tactical system similar to what the current squad is trained for.

SEVILLE, SPAIN - MAY 17: Oliver Glasner, Head Coach of Eintracht Frankfurt looks on during the Eintracht Frankfurt Walk around at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on May 17, 2022 in Seville, Spain. Eintracht Frankfurt will face Rangers FC in the UEFA Europa League final on May 18, 2022.
(Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

2. Xavi (The Tactical Purist)

The former Barcelona legend has been out of work since leaving the Catalan giants. Reports suggest some United directors believe his possession-based philosophy is exactly what is needed to restore the club’s identity.

VITORIA-GASTEIZ, SPAIN - FEBRUARY 03: Xavi Hernandez, head coach of FC Barcelona looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Deportivo Alaves and FC Barcelona at Estadio de Mendizorroza on February 03, 2024 in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain.
(Photo by Ion Alcoba Beitia/Getty Images)

3. Michael Carrick (The Homecoming)

A fan favorite and former United midfield general, Michael Carrick has impressed during his managerial stints elsewhere. His deep understanding of the club’s culture makes him a romantic—and potentially very effective—choice.

VILLARREAL, SPAIN - NOVEMBER 23: Interim Manager Michael Carrick of Manchester United watches from the touchline ahead of the UEFA Champions League group F match between Villarreal CF and Manchester United at Estadio de la Ceramica on November 23, 2021 in Villarreal, Spain.
(Photo by Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images)

4. Edin Terzić (The Available Option)

The former Borussia Dortmund manager is currently unattached, making him an easy “plug-and-play” option for a mid-season transition. Known for his tactical flexibility, he could provide the stability United desperately lacks.


The Inside Scoop: Tensions between Amorim and the board reportedly spiked over the lack of January reinforcements. While the manager pleaded for a new midfielder like Carlos Baleba, the board prioritized financial sustainability.

What to Watch

United’s next few fixtures are a gauntlet that will define their 2026 campaign. Whether under Darren Fletcher that is expected to take charge of Manchester United on an interim basis or a new permanent boss, keep an eye on these upcoming clashes:

Manchester United fixtures in 365Scores app
(Via 365Scores)