Staggering losses MU has suffered related to Ruben Amorim

Just 14 months after signing with MU, Amorim departed Old Trafford frustrated, with financial damages reaching tens of millions of pounds.

On the afternoon of January 5th, just hours after Ruben Amorim’s controversial press conference following the draw against Leeds, MU decided to sack the Portuguese coach. This outcome was anticipated as the Red Devils’ performance fluctuated and irreparable rifts appeared between Amorim and the board.

Amorim’s tenure at Old Trafford ended abruptly, lasting only 14 months. However, the consequences of this dismissal are significant, especially regarding MU’s finances.

In November 2024, MU paid a release clause fee of £9.25 million to Sporting Lisbon to bring Amorim in. At Old Trafford, the Portuguese coach earned a wage of £125,000 per week (equivalent to £6.5 million annually). After 14 months in charge, he is believed to have received around £7.5 million in salary.

Amorim’s contract with MU was valid until June 2027, approximately 77 weeks remaining. Because the Red Devils terminated him, they must compensate him for the remainder of the contract, about £9.6 million.

When Amorim arrived at MU, he brought along five assistants from Sporting: Carlos Fernandes, Jorge Vital, Adelio Candido, Emanuel Ferro, and Paulo Barreira. It is likely that if these staff members also leave the club, they will receive corresponding compensation. However, there is currently no official information on the future of this group.

Prior to this, MU also paid £9.5 million in compensation to coach Erik Ten Hag to make way for Amorim. Thus, during Amorim’s 14 months in charge at MU, he caused the club to spend approximately £36 million.

This amount does not include the £250 million spent on transfers for Patrick Dorgu, Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and Senne Lammes. Clearly, the decision to sack Amorim shows that INEOS made a serious mistake with severe consequences.

According to The Athletic, the decision to dismiss Amorim was made by CEO Omar Berrada and Sporting Director Jason Wilcox after the relationship between both parties "collapsed" due to disagreements over tactics – especially the use of the 3-4-3 formation and transfer strategies.

Immediately after Amorim’s departure, two prominent candidates were mentioned: former Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca and current Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner. Both possess modern football philosophies that align with the Red Devils’ long-term vision.

While waiting for an official successor, Darren Fletcher – the U18 coach – will temporarily take charge of the team. Fletcher will lead the squad in the Premier League match against Burnley on January 7th.