Next Manchester United Manager Odds - Favourites to Replace Ruben Amorim

Eddy Tora

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Last updated: Mon 05 Jan 2026 21:50

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Eddy Tora 05 Jan 2026

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Ruben Amorim has been sacked by Manchester United after 14 months
Former Red Devils midfielder Darren Fletcher is the interim manager
Enzo Maresca and Oliver Glasner lead the list of potential candidates

Ruben Amorim has been sacked by Manchester United (Getty)

Ruben Amorim Sacked - The Power Struggle Ends at Manchester United

In a move that surprised few who follow the English Premier League, Manchester United confirmed the sacking of Ruben Amorim on Monday, January 5, 2026.

The Portuguese tactician departs Old Trafford after just 14 months in charge, following a period defined more by internal friction than on-pitch progress.

Ruben Amorim Sacked - The Power Struggle Ends at Manchester United
The Leading Candidates
Next Manchester United Odds

The official statement read:

"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 would like to thank Ruben for his contribution to the club and wishes him well for the future.

Darren Fletcher will take charge of the team against Burnley on Wednesday."

Reports from The Guardian and Sky Sports suggest the relationship between Amorim and Sporting Director Jason Wilcox had become untenable, culminating in a public "manager vs head coach" rant following Sunday's 1-1 draw at Leeds.

With Darren Fletcher taking interim charge for the upcoming clash against Burnley, the focus shifts immediately to the next manager to take the role.

The Leading Candidates

The betting markets have reacted instantly to the vacancy. The search appears to be focused on managers with proven Premier League tactical flexibility or deep ties to the club's new hierarchy.

1. Enzo Maresca

Currently unattached after his departure from Chelsea, Maresca is the narrow favourite. His possession and structured pressing philosophy could align with the data-driven approach favored by Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox.

Maresca's experience within the City Football Group also makes him a known quantity to the United leadership.

2. Oliver Glasner

The Crystal Palace boss has seen his stock rise significantly after winning the 2025 FA Cup. While he is currently employed, The Guardian reports that United are long-term admirers of his high-intensity style.

If United choose to wait until the summer, Glasner becomes the primary target.

3. Darren Fletcher

Fletcher has been the "glue" at Carrington for years. While currently an interim solution, a strong run of results could see the board replicate the "Ole Gunnar Solskjaer" effect and hand him the reins until the end of the season or beyond.

4. Gareth Southgate

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s admiration for Southgate is well-documented. Having been out of the game since Euro 2024, Southgate represents a "culture-first" appointment.

5. Xavi Hernandez

If the board decides they need a "big name" to settle the dressing room, Xavi is the most prominent free agent.

The Spaniard's success in rebuilding Barcelona’s identity suggests he could handle the pressure of Old Trafford, though his demands for total control may clash with the new INEOS structure.