Manchester United have reportedly begun working on a contingency plan to replace Rúben Amorim, following the 1-1 draw against Wolves.
Rúben Amorim ended last season with Manchester United in 15th place in the Premier League and a loss in the Europa League final. For just the second time in Premier League history, United were without European football.
Despite the poor second half of the season under the Portuguese manager, United fans remained faithful to Amorim and prepared for another year under him, with Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo added to the ranks.
While the summer business provided hope for United fans, the start to the season did not. United won just one of their opening five games, including a penalty shootout defeat to Grimsby Town in the Carabao Cup.
When Senne Lammens arrived, United began to improve with a newfound stability at the back. However, United still seemed to struggle defensively, with four goals shipped against Bournemouth and two against both Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur.
United’s 1-0 win against Newcastle United on Boxing Day was more than impressive, especially without Bruno Fernandes, but that win has been quickly forgotten due to the draw against Wolves on 30 December. Speculation now surrounds Rúben Amorim.
United eye Amorim replacement
United begin 2026 with a trip to Elland Road and Turfmoor, before a tough set of fixtures against Brighton in the FA Cup, Manchester City and Arsenal. Having a backup plan if United continue to underperform is a smart option.
According to Caught Offside, United have already “begun working on plans to possibly replace Amorim at Old Trafford.” Public support continues for Amorim, but United are working on a contingency plan behind the scenes.
Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner appears to be the favourite to succeed Amorim, as he is considered a “safe pair of hands”. The Palace manager appeared close to leaving the Eagles earlier in the season, but the possible signing of Brennan Johnson could persuade Glasner to stay.
Other potential options for United include former Barcelona manager Xavi and current Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola.
United’s plans for the January transfer window will confirm if Amorim is supported at Old Trafford. If United refrain from many signings, the writing may already be on the wall.
Amorim must pursue with tactical change
Before the Wolves game, Amorim had deployed his side in a back four for three games in a row, with impressive showings in all three.
However, his decision to go back to the back three to “match up” against Rob Edwards’ side made little sense. It appeared he attempted to nullify their attacking threat by playing the same formation, but, as United found out at the start of the month, they don’t have much.
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If Amorim doesn’t continue with a back four, he is likely to lose support from much of the fan base, and United will continue to struggle on the pitch.
He’s shown he is willing to make changes. Now, pursue with them.
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