Manchester United's dressing room has delivered a unified and public show of support for Ruben Amorim, after the Portuguese manager was dismissed on Monday, January 6, 2026.
A Sudden Departure After Press Conference Outburst
The 40-year-old's tenure at Old Trafford was abruptly cut short after just 14 months in charge. His exit was triggered not by the 1-1 draw away at Leeds United on Sunday, but by explosive comments made in the subsequent press conference.
Amorim openly criticised the club's hierarchy, stressed his identity as a manager rather than a head coach, and confirmed he would not stay beyond his contract, which ran until 2027. These remarks prompted the club's leadership to act, and he was relieved of his duties the following morning.
Player Tributes Pour In Despite Poor Record
Despite overseeing what was comfortably the club's worst Premier League season in history last term, Amorim remained a popular figure within the squad. This was made abundantly clear by a flood of heartfelt messages from players across social media platforms.
Captain Bruno Fernandes led the tributes, posting in Portuguese: ‘Thank you, Mister! I wish you and your technical staff all the best.’ Senior defenders Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt both shared simple but appreciative notes, with each writing: ‘Thank you for everything boss.’
The sentiment was echoed by players he brought to the club. Winger Bryan Mbeumo posted: ‘Thank you for everything gaffer. All the best for the future,’ while striker Benjamin Sesko added his thanks. January signing Patrick Dorgu and forward Matheus Cunha also expressed their gratitude publicly.
Widespread Support from Across the Squad
The well-wishes were not limited to a core group. From the Africa Cup of Nations, Amad Diallo sent his thanks. Defenders Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw posted similar messages, as did Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount, the latter of whom Amorim was known to admire.
Young striker Chido Obi, who made his senior debut under Amorim, gave a particularly personal tribute: ‘Thanks for everything gaffer, especially for allowing me to make my debut for such a big club. Wish you all the best.’
Club Statement and What Comes Next
In an official statement, the club confirmed Amorim's departure, referencing the UEFA Europa League Final reached in May 2025 but noting the team's position of sixth in the Premier League. The decision was framed as giving the team the best chance for a high finish.
Darren Fletcher will take temporary charge for the trip to face Burnley at Turf Moor on Wednesday night. The club must now decide whether to appoint an interim manager for the remainder of the season or move directly for a permanent successor, with Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner emerging as the early favourite.
The public display from the players paints a picture of a manager who, despite failing to deliver results on the pitch, commanded significant respect and loyalty within the Carrington training ground.
