Ruben Amorim’s tenure at Manchester United appears to be reaching a critical point, with widespread reports indicating that the Portuguese coach has been handed a strict ultimatum: he must show significant improvement in the next three matches or risk losing his job. The tension around Old Trafford has grown considerably in recent weeks, fueled by United’s woeful run of form and capped by a humiliating derby defeat at the hands of rivals Manchester City. For many supporters, this is the lowest point the club has reached in decades.
Since arriving last November to replace Erik ten Hag, Amorim has failed to inspire the kind of turnaround that both fans and the club’s hierarchy had been hoping for. His overall record is deeply underwhelming—just eight victories from 31 Premier League outings. That translates to the lowest winning percentage recorded by any permanent United manager since the Second World War, a grim statistic that underlines the scale of his struggles. While United’s board and co-owners have publicly voiced their backing for Amorim on several occasions, the mood in and around the club suggests that confidence in his leadership is rapidly evaporating.
According to a report from *The Mirror*, the club has set a three-match window for Amorim to prove that he can turn results around. The upcoming fixtures are daunting and could define his future at Old Trafford. First, United will welcome an unbeaten Chelsea side, who have looked formidable this season and are unlikely to make things easy. That will be followed by a difficult away test against Brentford, a team known for their tactical discipline and ability to frustrate bigger opponents. Finally, United return home to face newly promoted Sunderland, a match many believe could serve as the decisive moment—either Amorim saves his job with a convincing win or confirms his fate with another disappointing display.
Behind closed doors, it is becoming increasingly clear that the club’s leadership is preparing for the possibility of a managerial change. Reports suggest that United have already identified five potential candidates to succeed Amorim if he is dismissed. Gareth Southgate, currently in charge of the England national team, is said to be a strong contender, especially given the admiration Sir Jim Ratcliffe has long expressed for him. Other names being considered include Oliver Glasner of Crystal Palace, Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, and Fulham boss Marco Silva—all managers who have impressed in the Premier League with limited resources. Additionally, Mauricio Pochettino, now managing the United States national team, is thought to remain firmly on United’s radar. His representatives reportedly held informal talks with the club following his departure from Chelsea in 2024, and his reputation as a top-level coach makes him a viable option once again.
As things stand, Ruben Amorim is walking a very thin line. The next three matches will not only shape Manchester United’s season but could also determine whether the Portuguese coach has a future in charge of one of the biggest clubs in world football.
