Following the sacking of Ruben Amorim, MU is undergoing a period of change and is actively seeking a new manager, which has intrigued the fans about the club’s future plans.
After the surprising decision to sack Ruben Amorim, Manchester United has stepped into a delicate transition period. Darren Fletcher is temporarily in charge, but this is likely just a short-term solution. Inside Old Trafford, there is a belief that the club needs a more experienced coach, and the biggest question among many "Red Devils" supporters is not only who will take the hot seat but also when MU will officially announce the decision is still uncertain.
Fletcher will lead MU in their upcoming Premier League away match against Burnley and the FA Cup game versus Brighton. However, reliable sources confirm that the management does not want the “patch-up” situation to drag on. The Sun reports that the targeted date is the Manchester derby on January 17th, when MU visits Man City’s stadium.
The key point is that: a more experienced coach, whether interim or permanent, might be appointed before the match against Man City. For the new owners, especially Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the derby is not just a game but a test of power and the club’s sporting direction.
In this context, Oliver Glasner has emerged as a candidate for the permanent head coach role. The Austrian manager currently leads Crystal Palace and his contract expires in the summer. Although highly regarded, Glasner causes some hesitation at MU due to his 3-4-2-1 tactical philosophy, which is quite similar to Amorim’s style, something the management is no longer keen on.
Amorim’s swift dismissal stems from various factors, including internal conflicts, sharp reactions toward the leadership, and controversial tactical choices. The draw against Leeds and public statements were seen as the “last straw,” forcing Sir Jim Ratcliffe to make a decisive call.
MU currently ranks sixth in the Premier League, a position not bad compared to last season. However, the leadership believes the team needs a coach with enough courage, experience, and tactical flexibility to face Man City. Therefore, the interim position at Old Trafford may change hands soon—just before the crucial derby on January 17th.