Ruben Amorim’s tenure as Manchester United manager has come to an abrupt end, driven by what former player Michael Owen describes as long-standing boardroom scepticism and a ‘big bust-up’ behind the scenes. Amorim’s departure follows a period of turbulence, marked by his candid criticism of the United hierarchy and a less-than-stellar Premier League campaign that saw them languish in 15th place, coupled with a humbling League Cup defeat to Grimsby.
Despite earlier comments from part-owner Jim Ratcliffe suggesting that Amorim’s project deserved a three-year assessment, Owen believes there was a deep-seated mistrust. “There was always scepticism,” Owen remarks. “The way Amorim communicated, his honesty was a stark contrast to his predecessor, Erik ten Hag. He called it as he saw it—even labelling this the worst United side ever—and there’s something refreshingly stark about that honesty. It may have secured him extra time despite mediocre results.”
The underlying issues appeared to culminate in what Owen describes as a ‘perfect excuse’ for the United bosses to part ways with the Portuguese coach after his recent remarks post-match. “It all happened rather quickly, like Enzo Maresca’s situation at Chelsea,” Owen explains, highlighting how whispers of discord during the build-up to the Leeds encounter were already indicating potential escalation.
Speculation about Amorim’s exit has inevitably triggered the perennial debate over his successor. Owen posits the ‘£64 million question’ of what type of manager is required to navigate the complex dynamics at United. He points to the rich pool of managerial talent, both employed and available, noting the potential for a temporary caretaker like Darren Fletcher to extend his stay should results improve.
“In the precarious landscape of modern football, a manager’s shelf-life can hinge on as little as a single comment or result,” Owen states, musing over the path ahead for a club now at a crossroads. “With numerous respected managers across the league, and out of work, United have their pick, but they need someone suited to work in this system.”
As the dust settles on another managerial episode, the question remains: who will be bold enough to step into the United hot seat and restore the club to its former glory?