Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim looks on during a Premier League match, early 2025. Photo credit: Getty Images via Daily Post.
Credit: Getty Images via Daily Post
Manchester United have identified Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner as their prime candidate to replace struggling Ruben Amorim, with the Portuguese coach facing mounting pressure after poor results including a shock Carabao Cup exit to Grimsby Town.
Manchester United Identify Oliver Glasner as Leading Candidate to Replace Struggling Ruben Amorim
Manchester United are actively preparing contingency plans for Ruben Amorim’s potential departure, with reports indicating Oliver Glasner has emerged as the leading candidate to take over at Old Trafford. Despite public backing from the board, United’s hierarchy are privately compiling a shortlist of elite managers as Amorim’s position becomes increasingly precarious following a disastrous start to the 2025/26 campaign.
The Portuguese manager’s tenure has been marked by tactical struggles and disappointing results, with United currently languishing in 14th position after managing just seven wins from 29 Premier League matches. The nadir came with a humiliating Carabao Cup elimination against League Two side Grimsby Town, a result that has intensified scrutiny on Amorim’s ability to implement his preferred 3-4-3 system effectively at the highest level.
Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner has been identified as the standout option among potential replacements, with sources suggesting he is viewed as an elite manager capable of making an immediate impact. Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola also features prominently on United’s shortlist, with both coaches praised for their tactical acumen and ability to maximise squad potential within existing resources.
The club’s summer investment of €225 million on forwards Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbuemo, and Benjamin Sesko has failed to yield the expected returns, with none of the trio finding the net since their arrivals. This lack of impact from marquee signings has compounded concerns about Amorim’s tactical approach and his ability to integrate new players into his demanding system.
While Manchester United maintain official support for Amorim publicly, the behind-the-scenes preparation of replacement options suggests the board’s patience may be wearing thin. No timeline for a potential managerial change has been confirmed, though upcoming fixtures could prove decisive in determining whether United’s hierarchy will act on their contingency planning or persist with their current project.
