Ruben Amorim Sacked: Five managers who could take over at Manchester United

The Red Devils have finally sacked the Portuguese manager.

After barely 14 months in command at Old Trafford, Manchester United fired Ruben Amorim to put an end to his tumultuous tenure.

Amorim, a flamboyant hire following an incredible tenure at Sporting CP, found it difficult to put his preferred 3-4-2-1 style into practice and stuck with it in spite of obvious alternatives.

Amorim rarely showed signs of his ideology taking hold, even if Manchester United improved this season. They frequently had setbacks, including losing points at home to a Wolves team that had only two points at the time.

Manchester United are now in sixth place in the Premier League standings, three points behind Liverpool in the race for a top-four spot. However, fifth place can also offer the UEFA Champions League football that the team needs to maintain its momentum.

But who will be the next manager to take over the club after the sacking of Amorim? We take a look at five potential replacements.

🚨 OFFICIAL: Man United statement:“Ruben Amorim has departed his role as Head Coach of Manchester United”. pic.twitter.com/alTwD40Tlc

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Five managers who can replace Ruben Amorim at Manchester United

5. Gareth Southgate

The former England manager, Gareth Southgate, has been connected to the position in the past and is reportedly highly regarded by Ineos.

Despite his accomplishments with the Three Lions, including two Euro finals and a World Cup semifinal defeat, his conservative manner makes him unpopular. Although a few wins would probably win over his detractors, his appointment may divide United supporters.

4. Unai Emery

Like Glasner, others are questioning how much more the highly rated Spaniard can advance with Aston Villa, who have been constrained by football’s financial rules. The club have had to sell players despite having plenty of money to maintain sustainability and profit margins.

Unai Emery, who may be weighing his options after three years in charge, sees the lack of Champions League action as a major setback.

3. Enzo Maresca

Another top name without a job is Enzo Maresca, who was recently fired by Chelsea following a fallout with the club’s board. He is now available on the market, and considering he plays possession-based football, the Red Devils will certainly have a look. The Italian manager also led the Blues to the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.

Despite not being at West London for a long time, Maresca turned the Blues into a top-four finisher in the league. United could explore a move if they feel his system can bring change at the club.

2. Xavi

After taking a year off after leaving Barcelona at the end of the 2023–2024 season, the Spanish legend is prepared to return to management. According to Fabrizio Romano, Xavi has been closely monitoring the Premier League in anticipation of his future position and would love the chance to lead United.

His performance with FC Barcelona was more than stellar, with one LaLiga title and a Spanish Super Cup, following a fruitful management tenure in Qatar. Further considering his stellar playing career, he ought to be able to manage United with ease.

1. Oliver Glasner

How much higher can he possibly lead Crystal Palace after winning the FA Cup, FA Community Shield, and European qualification? Supporters of the Eagles will contend that there is no ceiling and wonder why Oliver Glasner would leave a winning team for one that seems to be in constant upheaval.

Glasner is in a strong position with less than a year remaining on his Palace contract. When asked about rumours tying him to United and reports that he won’t renew his contract with Palace, the 51-year-old remained silent.

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