SHOCKING NEWS: Ex-La liga coach set to become Manchester United head coach after Amorim dismissal
Manchester United have moved swiftly to settle their managerial situation by agreeing to appoint former Barcelona and Spain icon Xavi Hernández as the club’s new head coach, following the dismissal of Rúben Amorim earlier this week.
The decision was ratified by INEOS, who control football operations at Old Trafford, and confirmed on Tuesday morning. Xavi is expected to travel to Manchester later this week, with plans already in place for him to officially begin overseeing first-team matters from February. The short delay is intended to allow all contractual details to be finalised and to ensure a smooth handover during the transition period.
His appointment brings much-needed clarity after a spell of uncertainty sparked by Amorim’s brief and eventful time in charge, which ended abruptly and left the club searching for direction once again.
Since Amorim’s exit, United’s hierarchy have been evaluating several managerial options, prioritising stability, long-term vision, and a clearly defined style of play. Xavi quickly stood out as a strong candidate, largely due to his experience at the highest level of European football and his reputation for tactical discipline, positional structure, and trust in young players.
INEOS are understood to believe that Xavi’s football philosophy fits neatly with their long-term plans for the club. His preference for controlled, possession-based football, combined with a focus on youth development and coherent squad building, is seen as a foundation United can build on over several seasons rather than a short-term fix.
In a brief statement, the club expressed confidence that the appointment marks an important step forward as Manchester United attempt to reset after another period of turbulence, both on and off the pitch.
Xavi arrives with an illustrious background. As a player, he was a central figure in one of the most successful eras in football history, winning multiple Champions League and La Liga titles with Barcelona, as well as major international honours with Spain, including the World Cup and European Championship. His coaching spell at Barcelona, carried out during a financially difficult period for the club, earned praise for restoring competitiveness and successfully integrating academy graduates into the senior squad.
United will continue with interim coaching arrangements until Xavi formally takes charge in February. During that time, he is expected to begin evaluating the squad and working closely with INEOS and the football department on recruitment plans and long-term squad development.
The announcement has sparked strong reactions among supporters, many of whom see the move as a bold attempt to bring clarity and identity back to the club. While United remain focused on maintaining their league position, attention is already turning toward the next phase of the rebuild under Xavi’s leadership. The club is yet to confirm the length of his contract or the composition of his backroom staff.
