According to multiple close sources at Old Trafford, most Red Devils players shared a common reaction to Amorim's departure after just over a year in charge.
Manchester United's decision to sack coach Ruben Amorim continues to cause strong ripples, as numerous players openly expressed dissatisfaction and extended their thanks to the Portuguese strategist.
Although Man United’s management insists this was a performance-based decision, citing the team’s lack of clear progress and absence of a stable development plan, the atmosphere in the locker room tells a different story. Insiders reveal that Amorim was a coach well-liked by players, who maintained team cohesion and still enjoyed support from most key members.
Man United players were informed of Amorim’s sacking on Monday morning. However, many had anticipated this outcome days earlier, especially after Amorim’s tense press conference following the draw with Leeds United. During that conference, he openly criticized the club’s leadership, a move seen as the final straw in an already fragile relationship between the two sides.
Notably, immediately after Amorim’s departure, numerous Man United stars shared messages of gratitude on social media. Bruno Fernandes and Harry Maguire led this wave of appreciation, alongside names like Diogo Dalot, Matthijs de Ligt, Amad Diallo, Mason Mount, Bryan Mbeumo, and Joshua Zirkzee. To date, over 10 players have publicly bid farewell to Amorim, a figure far exceeding the four who spoke out when Jose Mourinho was dismissed in 2018.
Interestingly, Patrick Dorgu and Benjamin Sesko also expressed thanks to Amorim, despite earlier reports suggesting that Amorim’s criticism of these two players contributed to his sacking. In reality, both Dorgu and Sesko were signings driven by the club’s leadership and sporting director Jason Wilcox, with Amorim’s approval.
Unlike previous coaching changes at Old Trafford, Man United’s management did not consult players before deciding to dismiss Amorim. This partly explains the quiet backlash within the squad.
Following Amorim’s exit, Darren Fletcher was appointed as interim head coach. Man United will quickly return to action midweek with an away match against Burnley in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Amorim was seen in a relaxed mood walking with his wife, indicating he is ready for the next chapter in his coaching career.
According to British media reports, Ruben Amorim’s turbulent tenure at Old Trafford cost Man United around £30 million, including contract compensation and related clauses. Nevertheless, with strong backing from players, Amorim left the club with his head held high, leaving fans with mixed feelings.