Shock at Old Trafford: Manchester United Axe Ruben Amorim After Explosive Press Conference
Manchester United have officially parted ways with head coach Ruben Amorim, bringing an abrupt end to the Portuguese tactician’s short and turbulent tenure at Old Trafford.
The decision was confirmed by the club in a statement released on Monday, January 5, 2026.
Amorim, who was appointed in November 2024, was relieved of his duties amid mounting concerns over Manchester United’s performances and growing internal tensions within the club’s hierarchy.
At the time of his dismissal, the Red Devils were sitting sixth in the Premier League table.
According to information gathered by Global Mirror News, the club’s leadership acted less than 24 hours after Amorim publicly criticised elements of the club’s structure and decision-making process during a post-match press conference.
His comments followed a 1–1 Premier League draw against Leeds United and reportedly intensified pressure on the manager, accelerating internal deliberations over his future.
Sources close to the club indicate that Amorim’s remarks were viewed as exposing cracks within the Old Trafford setup, prompting swift action by the board despite his relatively recent appointment. The decision came less than two seasons into his reign.
In an official statement published on the club’s website, Manchester United acknowledged Amorim’s contributions, noting that he guided the team to the UEFA Europa League final in Bilbao in May 2025.
The statement read in part:
“Ruben Amorim has departed his role as Head Coach of Manchester United. Ruben was appointed in November 2024 and led the team to a UEFA Europa League Final in Bilbao in May.
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 also confirmed that former Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher will take charge of the team on an interim basis, starting with Wednesday’s Premier League fixture against Burnley, as preparations begin to identify a permanent replacement.
Manchester United concluded their statement by thanking Amorim for his service and wishing him success in his future endeavours. Further developments are expected in the coming days as the club navigates another managerial transition.
