Manchester United has parted ways with manager Ruben Amorim just 14 months after his appointment, following a disappointing 1-1 draw with Leeds on November 5, 2023. The decision, confirmed by The Athletic‘s David Ornstein, comes amid ongoing unrest both on and off the pitch, leaving the club in a challenging sixth place in the Premier League standings. Darren Fletcher, a former midfielder for the club, has stepped in as interim manager while Manchester United begins its search for a permanent successor.
As the club grapples with its next move, a number of candidates are emerging as potential replacements. One of the early favourites is Enzo Maresca, who recently left Chelsea. Previously linked to the managerial role at Manchester City, Maresca’s experience at Stamford Bridge may position him well for the demands of Old Trafford. His previous connections with United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, could ease concerns over his candidacy, particularly after the club’s recent struggles with managerial stability.
Another strong contender is Gareth Southgate, the former England manager. His pragmatic approach contrasts sharply with Amorim’s tactical rigidity, potentially appealing to a club desperate for stability. Southgate revitalized the England national team, leading them to the finals of both Euro 2020 and the upcoming Euro 2024, as well as a World Cup semi-final appearance. Nevertheless, questions linger about his tactical adeptness in a league dominated by managers like Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta.
In contrast, Oliver Glasner, currently managing Crystal Palace, is viewed as a more unconventional choice. Despite leading Palace to European competition following FA Cup success, his team has struggled recently, going winless in their last seven matches. Transitioning to Manchester United mid-season could present significant challenges, particularly after Palace’s recent investment in player acquisitions.
Additionally, Andoni Iraola, who has gained attention for his tactical acumen at Bournemouth, could be a candidate worth monitoring. While transitioning from a mid-tier club to Manchester United is daunting, Iraola’s flexibility may provide a refreshing change.
Despite his previous success, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains an unlikely option. The former manager’s return would be met with skepticism given the circumstances surrounding his departure.
Notably, Mauricio Pochettino and Unai Emery are also on the club’s radar. Pochettino, currently with the US Men’s National Team, would face scrutiny for leaving during a pivotal World Cup year. Emery’s remarkable work at Aston Villa has raised his profile, but his recent five-year contract may deter him from considering a move to Manchester United.
As the club navigates this transitional period, the next few days will provide clarity on their managerial direction. With the club’s leadership seeking a tactically adaptable coach, the focus seems to be on candidates like Southgate and Iraola.
The swift exit of Amorim raises questions regarding the decision-making at INEOS, the club’s minority owners. Sir Jim Ratcliffe previously expressed confidence in Amorim, suggesting he deserved three years to prove himself. The rapid decline in support for Amorim highlights the fragile nature of managerial tenure at Manchester United and the potential misjudgments made by the current leadership.
Amorim’s commitment to a fixed tactical system was widely known, and concerns about its effectiveness led the club to explore other options before appointing him. The mid-season appointment has been seen as a misstep, particularly as it followed the dismissal of sporting director Dan Ashworth, who had recommended alternatives more aligned with the club’s needs.
As Manchester United contemplates its next steps, the path forward remains uncertain. The direction the club takes could significantly impact its quest to regain its status as a top competitor in both domestic and European football.