Breaking: Darren Fletcher takes over at Manchester United

Manchester United have appointed Darren Fletcher as their new interim manager, following the dismissal of head coach Rúben Amorim with immediate effect.

The former United midfielder steps into the role after the club relieved the Portuguese coach of his duties on Monday morning, just 14 months after appointing him as head coach.

Amorim’s exit came less than 24 hours after he made a sensational suggestion that he could be “forced out of the club”, during an extraordinary post-match rant following United’s 1–1 draw with Leeds United. His comments exposed what appeared to be a deepening rift between himself and the club’s hierarchy, reportedly linked to concerns that the board were unwilling to back him in the current transfer window.

Amorim’s perceived refusal to adjust his tactical philosophy is also believed to have influenced Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s decision to part ways with the 40-year-old coach.

United had an interim replacement lined up prior to Amorim’s dismissal, with Fletcher emerging as the obvious choice due to his continued involvement within the club’s coaching and development structure.

Confirming the decision, Manchester United said in an official statement:

“Ruben Amorim has departed his role as Head Coach of Manchester United.

“Ruben was appointed in November 2024 and led the team to a UEFA Europa League Final in Bilbao in May.

“With Manchester United sitting sixth in the Premier League, the club’s leadership has reluctantly made the decision that it is the right time to make a change.

“This will give the team the best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish.

“The club would like to thank Ruben for his contribution to the club and wishes him well for the future.

“Darren Fletcher will take charge of the team against Burnley on Wednesday.”

Fletcher, who spent 20 years at Manchester United as a player, was most recently in charge of the club’s Under-18 side. The former Scotland international began his coaching career in 2020, initially working with United’s Under-16s.

He made 342 appearances for the Red Devils during his playing career and was promoted to first-team coach in January 2021, a role he held for just over three years before being replaced by Jason Wilcox in April 2024. Fletcher later remained at the club in a reduced capacity before taking up the Under-18s position in July.

Amorim, who has yet to publicly comment on his dismissal, leaves Manchester United sixth in the Premier League with a 38.71 per cent win rate. He recorded 24 wins from 62 matches, during which his side conceded 94 goals.

Fletcher will take charge of his first match as interim manager when United face Burnley on Wednesday.