Ruben Amorim is reportedly weighing up his future at Manchester United after what has been nothing short of a nightmare beginning to the new season, made worse by a humiliating Carabao Cup elimination.
Despite heavy investment during the summer transfer window, United’s problems have only deepened, and the Portuguese manager now finds himself under intense scrutiny. Since taking charge in November 2024, Amorim has struggled to steady the ship at Old Trafford. Last season ended with United languishing in 15th place, a finish that drew unflattering comparisons to managers remembered for relegation battles. Hopes of a fresh start this term have quickly evaporated, with the team still winless after three competitive games, including a Premier League defeat, a draw, and the shocking cup loss to League Two side Grimsby Town. That result, in particular, has angered supporters and sparked louder demands for him to be dismissed. Amorim’s post-match comments, where he hinted at a strained relationship with his squad, only fueled speculation that he might walk away before the board acts.
Initially, United’s hierarchy, fronted by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, stood firmly behind him, even assuring him his job was safe after last season’s Europa League final defeat to Tottenham. But the situation has shifted dramatically. Sacking Amorim would not come cheap, with his contract running until June 2027 and reportedly worth around €7 million annually. Terminating the deal, coupled with the expense of hiring a new manager and backroom staff, would pile more financial strain on a club that has already spent over €72 million on managerial payoffs since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.
Those close to Amorim suggest he believes United’s issues extend far beyond tactics or team selection. He has admitted to being embarrassed by recent displays and accepted responsibility, but he also insists the club needs a deeper cultural reset. His reputation before arriving in England was stellar—he famously led Sporting CP to their first league crown in 19 years and built a name for nurturing young talent with his 3-4-3 system. Yet the contrast at Old Trafford has been striking. Many observers argue the relentless pressure, coupled with longstanding structural problems at United, has proven far more challenging than Amorim ever expected.
