Manchester United have drawn up a three-man shortlist to replace Ruben Amorim if results fail to improve, with Gareth Southgate, Oliver Glasner and Andoni Iraola all under consideration.
United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has already spoken directly with Southgate in recent weeks, talkSPORT reports, with the former England manager back on the radar after initially turning down a club return last year.
United weigh up Amorim’s future
The Old Trafford hierarchy remain reluctant to sack Amorim despite a poor record of just 33 points from 34 Premier League matches. His side’s 3-1 defeat to Brentford on Saturday highlighted familiar issues — Igor Thiago struck twice, Bruno Fernandes missed a penalty, and Mathias Jensen sealed the win to leave United 13th in the table.
Since his appointment in November 2024, United have never won back-to-back league games under Amorim. They have conceded the opening goal in 21 matches, and his tally of 17 Premier League defeats already surpasses the number he suffered across 167 games in Portugal’s Primeira Liga.
Although Amorim has said publicly he would walk away without a payoff, sacking him before November 1 would reportedly cost United around £12m, a key factor in Ratcliffe’s decision-making.
Candidates in frame
Southgate leads the list, but Palace boss Oliver Glasner and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola are also admired. Glasner’s reputation has grown after guiding Palace to safety with an organised, competitive side, while Iraola’s attacking style has caught attention despite limited top-level experience.
According to reports, Ruben Amorim will not see out his contract, which runs until 2027, suggesting results rather than progress will decide his fate.
Author’s View
Southgate’s name would instantly split opinion among fans, but Ratcliffe’s direct contact shows intent. Glasner feels the most balanced candidate, yet Iraola remains the wildcard. For Amorim, time is running short — United need consistency, not more “almost” performances.
As featured on ManUNews.com
