Manchester United has terminated the contract of head coach Ruben Amorim, the club announced on January 5, 2025. This decision follows a disappointing run, with the team sitting in sixth place in the Premier League. The club described the choice as “reluctant,” indicating the challenges faced during Amorim’s tenure. Darren Fletcher has been appointed as the interim coach.
In a statement, Manchester United expressed gratitude to Amorim for his efforts and wished him success in future endeavors. Amorim took charge in November 2024, succeeding interim coach Ruud van Nistelrooy. His appointment followed the departure of Erik ten Hag, who managed the team from 2022 until October 2024. The club has seen a number of managerial changes since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, with notable figures including Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Jose Mourinho, Louis van Gaal, and David Moyes.
Under Amorim, Manchester United struggled significantly, finishing 15th in the Premier League for the 2024-25 season with a record of 11 wins, 18 draws, and 9 losses. This marked their lowest points total, 42 points, since the 1973-74 season, when they faced relegation. The team’s form has continued to wane, starting the current season with just two wins in their first six matches, holding a record of 2-3-1.
Amorim’s dismissal comes shortly after he addressed concerns about his job security during a press conference. He stated, “It’s going to be like this for 18 months or when the board decide to change. That was my point, I want to finish with that. I’m not going to quit. I will do my job until another guy is coming here to replace me.”
Manchester United’s recent performance has been lackluster, with only one win in their last five matches. They managed a 1-1 draw against Leeds United on January 4, 2025, leaving them behind rivals Chelsea and Liverpool in the Premier League standings. Current league leaders include Arsenal, Manchester City, and Aston Villa.
Looking ahead, Manchester United will face Burnley on January 7, 2025, at 3:15 p.m. EST. The match will be crucial for the Red Devils as they aim to improve their standing in the league and regain momentum under Fletcher’s interim leadership.
