Jose Mourinho has broken his silence to offer advice to fellow Portuguese manager Ruben Amorim, who was sensationally sacked by Manchester United on Monday, January 7, 2026.
The Explosive Exit at Elland Road
Ruben Amorim's tenure as Manchester United boss ended abruptly less than a day after he made controversial comments following a draw with Leeds United. The 40-year-old, seemingly frustrated by the club's hierarchy, publicly insisted he was the 'manager' and not merely a 'head coach', and confirmed his intention to leave when his contract expired in 2027.
Old Trafford officials acted swiftly, dismissing Amorim by Monday morning. This has left the club scrambling for a new leader, with technical director Darren Fletcher stepping in to take charge for the midweek Premier League fixture against Burnley.
Mourinho's Counsel: 'Close the Door'
Now managing Benfica, the 62-year-old Mourinho was asked for his analysis of the situation. While he stated that only Amorim could truly analyse what happened, he was clear on what his own approach would be.
'My career at Manchester United, I know it well. I also know the reason why I ended up leaving,' Mourinho told Portuguese publication O Jogo. 'But as I always do, or try to do, when I leave a club I close the door and then I do not make comments. I do not analyse externally what happened.'
Mourinho, who was appointed United manager in May 2016 and dismissed in December 2018, offered reassuring words to his compatriot. 'A door closes and another one will open. That is what happened when I left. The history stayed there, the numbers stayed there, the three medals came home and that is it.' During his own reign, Mourinho secured the League Cup, Europa League, and Community Shield, and finished second in the Premier League.
Fallout and Future for United
Mourinho dismissed the suggestion that Amorim's failed stint would harm the prospects of other young Portuguese coaches in England. 'I do not understand why it would, but each coach will answer for himself. For me, no, I do not feel it that way,' he said.
Amorim himself has yet to comment publicly since his departure. However, his former assistant at Old Trafford, Carlos Fernandes, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, thanking the players, staff, and fans. He described his time as assistant manager as a 'special chapter' that tested his knowledge and revealed his character.
The immediate focus for Manchester United is on the pitch under Darren Fletcher's temporary stewardship, as the club's board begins the critical search for a permanent successor to lead the team forward.
