3 weeks ago
18
Amorim sacked
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Shockwaves were sent around the footballing world this Monday morning, as it was announced that Manchester United had sacked manager Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese boss was only appointed in November 2024 and lasted just 63 games as the Red Devils manager. In a club statement, Man United said: "Amorim has departed his role as Head Coach of Manchester United. 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."
Former player and now coach Darren Fletcher will take charge of the team against Burnley on Wednesday. Both of his sons Jack and Tyler Fletcher have been included in first-team squads this season. Fletcher has only been appointed on an interim basis, and although he may be one of the candidates to get the role on a full-time basis, it seems possible but unlikely at this stage. However, a permanent appointment is likely to wait until the summer which means he may get a lengthy period to impress. With all this in mind, Transfermarkt has picked out five potential candidates to be the next Man United manager.
Five candidates to be the next Manchester United manager
Oliver Glasner - Crystal Palace
One of the early favourites for the job appears to be Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner. The Austrian has done wonders at Selhurst Park, leading the Eagles away from relegation struggles to winning the first major trophy in the club's history, beating Manchester City in the FA Cup final last season. Glasner has shown tactical maturity, but does tend to usually field a back three, which ended up being part of the problem with Amorim. However, Glasner has previously stated that he is adaptable and picks the best shape for the team he has at his disposal and has set up with a back four at other former clubs.
Enzo Maresca - Without club
Newly-available, perhaps Enzo Maresca could have caught the eye of the Man United hierarchy. The Italian parted ways with Chelsea last week despite leading the club back into the Champions League and winning the Europa Conference League and Club World Cup in his first season. Many considered that Maresca had done a fine job under difficult circumstances at Chelsea and deserved more time. He is still viewed as a top coach and tactician and could be an interesting option for the Red Devils.
Darren Fletcher - Manchester United (interim)
Despite never previously having managed a senior side, Fletcher is one of the current favourites to get the job on a permanent basis. He has received plaudits for his coaching with Manchester United U18s and could perhaps see the path of his former teammate Ole Gunnar Solskjaer as an inspiration. The Norwegian was appointed interim manager in 2018 and ended up landing the job permanently after impressing. It would be a huge step up though for the Scotsman.
Michael Carrick - Without club
Another former player who has been linked with the job is Michael Carrick. The former midfielder started well at Championship club Middlesbrough, but then began to stagnate and was relieved of his duties last term. He has however still considered a prosperous young coach and his ties with the club could see him land the big job, although it seems unlikely at this stage.
Gareth Southgate - Without club
Former England manager Gareth Southgate continues to also be a name heavily linked with the Manchester United job. Despite having very little recent experience in club management, he took the Three Lions to two major tournament finals and appears to have a good relationship with some of those among the hierarchy at Man United. It would however likely be an unpopular appointment with much of the fanbase.
