Manchester United have announced the immediate departure of head coach Ruben Amorim, ending his tenure after just 14 months. The decision follows a string of underwhelming performances and a public outburst aimed at the club's board after a 1-1 draw against Leeds United. Former Manchester United player and academy coach Darren Fletcher has been appointed as interim manager.
Amorim's exit comes after increasing tension with the club's hierarchy, particularly regarding transfer policy. He alluded to disagreements during a post-match press conference, urging the scouting department and sporting director to "do their job". Amorim reportedly believed the club would support him in the January transfer window, but his understanding changed, leading to discontent. This was further fueled by a reluctance to sell Kobbie Mainoo, a player reportedly out of favor with Amorim.
Manchester United currently sit sixth in the Premier League. Amorim's last match in charge was the draw against Leeds. Amorim's overall record at United saw him lead the team to a Europa League final in Bilbao. He was appointed in November 2024. In late October 2025, Amorim secured United's first away win against Liverpool since 2016. He also won his first Premier League Manager of the Month award in October.
Darren Fletcher, a former United midfielder with a long history at the club, steps in as interim manager. Fletcher will take charge of the team for their next game against Burnley on Wednesday. Fletcher, born on February 1, 1984, won 13 major trophies with United during his playing career, including five Premier League titles and the Champions League.
The club's leadership felt a change was necessary to provide the best opportunity for a strong finish to the Premier League season. The search for a permanent replacement will begin immediately. Manchester United have had 24 full-time managers since the beginning of official managerial records in 1892.
