Home Blog Page 65

United could jump for former coach who did wonders at Old Trafford, INEOS “appreciate” the work he has done – report

Manchester United’s abysmal record under Ruben Amorim has given all the fans pause. Winning nine out of 33 Premier League games is simply not good enough for a club of United’s stature.

The Portuguese tactician remains hellbent on sticking to his flawed system, which has not worked for almost a year now.

And having spent so much money in trying to mould the squad in the head coach’s image, INEOS also seem determined to stay the course for now.

Public backing aside, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has other alternatives in mind, with the likes of Andoni Iraola, Fabian Hurzeler, and Oliver Glasner among the names doing the rounds.

Alternatives in mind

A Premier League-proven coach is what the co-owners are expected to jump for, should the ex-Sporting CP boss be made redundant.

And as per TBR Football, a familiar face could once again be headed back to Old Trafford, a name that has managed in the English top-flight as recently as last season.

Kieran McKenna worked as a first team coach under both Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and was a hugely popular figure at the club.

When he was at the club, the Red Devils played an entertaining brand of football, with the team finishing in the top four in two out of four seasons.

He eventually embarked on his own managerial adventure soon after the Treble winner departed, and has been managing Ipswich Town since 2021.

Back-to-back promotions under him saw the Tractor Boys climb up from League One to the Premier League, and while their stay in the English top-flight lasted for only a season, they earned rave reviews for their exciting style.

And INEOS remain his admirers, and could look to bring him in if they cannot attract the big names for now. And it would not be the worst choice.

Kieran McKenna on the club’s radar

“United are backing Amorim as they have since the day he arrived, let’s not suggest in any way they are not, but that said, there is concern within the club’s hierarchy about the performances, how can’t there be?

“Whilst the club are behind him and want him to succeed in the long-term, this is a result business. He has won just nine league games from 33 – that is not good.

“Off the back of that, United are doing their due diligence on options. Whilst not an active search at this point – Gareth Southgate’s name is on their list, along with the likes of Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraola, and they have always appreciated the work of Kieran McKenna.”

The former academy coach knows the club inside and out, and his proven track record with young players would suit INEOS’ agenda down to the T.


Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25

Surprise PL boss “under consideration” to replace Amorim, his arrival has another huge transfer benefit – report

Ruben Amorim’s nightmare spell in charge of Manchester United continues, with the Red Devils losing 1-3 against Brentford on Saturday.

The Portuguese has now won a mere nine games out of 33 in the Premier League since taking charge, and has the lowest win-rate of any manager since World War II.

It is a huge cause for concern, and many fans believe that INEOS should act now before the season becomes a write-off.

For now, the co-owners seem to be backing the ex-Sporting CP boss to figure it out, but recent reports have revealed that the club has been looking at alternatives in case they do need to pull the plug.

PL-proven manager on INEOS’ agenda

Like their summer approach with players, the 20-time English league champions are also looking at bringing in a Premier League-proven man at the helm.

Andoni Iraola and Oliver Glasner are among the top candidates, while Gareth Southgate is a controversial name doing the rounds. However, the former England manager last managed in the English top-flight back in 2009.

A surprise name has cropped up, courtesy of The Sun, who have claimed that Brighton and Hove Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler is also on INEOS’ radar.

The German oversaw a eighth-place finish last season, after taking over from Roberto de Zerbi, and only lost nine games all season.

“Oliver Glasner, Fabian Hurzeler and Andoni Iraola are among the coaches under consideration to replace Ruben Amorim if he is sacked by Manchester United.

“Although Amorim retains the club’s backing, United are keeping an eye on potential replacements amid their alarming form. Club sources insist they do not have a successor to Amorim lined up but accept the speculation around the manager’s role.

Fabian Hurzeler on United’s radar

“United initially placed an emphasis on Premier League-proven signings in the summer with Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo and could apply that to their next managerial search.

“Hurzeler replaced Roberto De Zerbi at Brighton at the start of last season and presided over an eighth-place finish.”

He is the the youngest manager in Premier League history, which shows his immense potential, while getting him could bring United one step closer to finally landing Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba.

Fabian Hurzeler has a contract with the Seagulls until 2027, which means a significant payment will be needed to get him out of the Amex Stadium. Sacking Amorim also entails a huge cost.

It will be interesting to see if and when INEOS pull the plug, and who comes in to replace Amorim.


Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25

Key United duo pushed into unfamiliar territory as ruthless Ineos decision threatens their Old Trafford futures – report

Central defence is hardly the first area Manchester United fans believe the club desperately needs to bolster.

However, a revelation by The Mirror, relayed by the Manchester Evening News, frames United’s centre-back department as one INEOS are keen to overhaul.

Defensive duo’s future up in the air

According to MEN:

“It is said that United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe will not be extending Maguire’s current deal.

“Head coach Ruben Amorim is reportedly preparing for a future without Maguire and has concerns about the long-term fitness of injury-prone defender Lisandro Martinez.”

This summer saw centre-backs Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof depart on free transfers. Evans hung up his boots and has taken up a role at the club, while Lindelof joined Aston Villa.

Neither was replaced, but with Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven and Tyler Fredricson in the mix, many felt United could afford to stand pat.

But with Maguire set to leave on a free next summer, “Amorim losing faith in Martinez”, and Mazraoui also proving injury-prone, United’s backline suddenly looks exposed. It is a position the club must now invest in.

Branthwaite back on the radar

While Maguire and Martinez’s futures remain uncertain, MEN report that United are planning without the duo, setting the stage for another push to sign Jarrad Branthwaite.

They write:

“This could lead to United making another move for Branthwaite – but they may face stiff competition from Liverpool, who are also very interested in the 23-year-old.”

Branthwaite was INEOS’ dream defensive signing in their first summer window (Summer 24) at the helm.

They pushed hard for his signature, but the deal never materialised, prompting them to move on and sign French defensive prodigy Leny Yoro.

Now, transfer murmurs suggest the Everton man is tempted to leave the Hill Dickinson Stadium, with both Anfield and Old Trafford calling.

But with “the signals” emerging from the Theatre of Dreams, the Reds should brace themselves for a battle if they’re to beat United to the “absolutely brilliant Branthwaite,” as Aaron Lennon once described him.

Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images


Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Since Dan was introduced to Manchester United in 2008, he has lived and breathed the club. What started as being a fan evolved into writing about United, allowing him to feel part of their journey. Hopefully, his work might even help rekindle your love for the kings of Manchester.

High-flying PL manager ready to join United, would accept their offer “in a heartbeat” – report

Manchester United might not struggle too much in their search for a new manager should they decide to pull the trigger on Ruben Amorim.

Amorim is facing intense scrutiny following a series of frustrating results. United’s defeat at Brentford, their 17th in 33 Premier League matches under the Portuguese tactician, has led to many fans and pundits alike demanding his sacking. 

As things stand, it has been business as usual at Carrington, and it is understood the club’s hierarchy have not given Amorim any indication that he will not be on the touchline against Sunderland next weekend.

However, a defeat against the newly-promoted side before the international break may force Ineos’ hands, triggering another rebuild.

Glasner lands on Manchester United’s radar

Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming United are monitoring Oliver Glasner’s situation at Crystal Palace. 

The 51-year-old has done a remarkable job in South London so far, having led the Eagles to their first major trophy after beating Manchester City in the FA Cup final in May.

Palace have been equally resilient in the Premier League, and are the only team who remain unbeaten in England’s top flight this season after handing Liverpool a shock defeat at Selhurst Park. In fact, they haven’t lost in their last 12 Premier League matches. 

Akin to Amorim, the 51-year-old also uses a back-three formation, only his system is a lot more unpredictable and difficult to slice open for the opposition. 

Glasner open to joining Manchester United

According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Glasner would not think twice before jumping ship if United knock on his door. 

Speaking to talkSPORT, Jacobs said: “My information is if Glasner was offered the Manchester United job, he would take it in a heartbeat.”

The Austrian has entered the final year of his contract at Palace, meaning the South London outfit may not have much of a say in his future.

In a recent interview with Kicker, Glasner admitted that he is aware of reports linking him to United, stating: “I follow all the rumours – and that’s all there is – neutrally and completely relaxed. Focusing on the daily work with my players and coaches, and trying to enjoy it as much as possible.”

Feature image Alex Pantling via Getty Images


Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!

Amorim forced to turn to red-hot academy wonderkid in training to solve crisis, fans have been calling for this for a while – report

Manchester United crashed to their third Premier League defeat of the season on Saturday, losing 1-3 to Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium.

They have only won twice this season, and the record under Ruben Amorim makes for a dismal read. The only positive to come from the match in London was new signing Benjamin Sesko finally breaking his duck for the season.

Despite spending heavily on improving the team’s attack, United’s struggles up top have continued, and fans have raised questions about why the head coach has not turned to the academy to address this issue.

Chido Obi, who was handed his senior debut last term by the Portuguese, is yet to get a matchday call-up despite scoring three times in as many starts for the U21s.

Chido Obi back in senior training

U21s manager Travis Binnion has called for patience, while former Danish international Mikkel Beckmann has urged his compatriot to leave Old Trafford in search of regular minutes.

Amorim finally seems to have seen the light of day, and as per journalist Nathan Salt, the Danish youth international has been finally called up to first-team training.

Chido Obi and Víctor Musa among the youngsters drafted into the first team training group on family day at Carrington yesterday #mufc

— Nathan Salt (@NathSalt1) September 29, 2025

Apart from the ex-Arsenal youth ace, Victor Musa was also part of first team training. Last season, the Englishman had netted 16 times for the U18s.

“Chido Obi and Víctor Musa among the youngsters drafted into the first team training group on family day at Carrington yesterday,” The Daily Mail journalist wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Amorim needs all the help he can get

Whether this means Chido Obi will finally get a call-up to the matchday squad remains to be seen. But Amorim could certainly do with more attacking reinforcements.

Currently, apart from Sesko, there is no out-and-out centre-forward in the senior squad, with Joshua Zirkzee far more adept at playing as an attacking midfielder.

The Red Devils will return to action against Sunderland at Old Trafford on Saturday, a must-win tie ahead of the all-important Liverpool clash after the international break.

It will be far from easy against the newly promoted Black Cats, who are flying high in fifth place with 11 points, four more than the 20-time English league champions.

Feature image Richard Heathcote via Getty Images


Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25

One of Europe’s richest clubs plotting ambitious January move for United’s next Cunha – report

Manchester United forward Joshua Zirkzee has had a difficult start to the season, but he continues to attract interest from Serie A.

Rasmus Hojlund and Zirkzee were both the subjects of interest from Italian clubs in the summer, owing to their promising stints at Atalanta and Bologna respectively.

United were keen to offload Hojlund, eventually agreeing a deal with Napoli. However, they turned down approaches for Zirkzee, as the Dutch striker impressed as a wide playmaker under Ruben Amorim.

However, this season, Amorim has largely overlooked the 24-year-old, who is yet to start a game. And a Serie A club is ready to test United’s resolve in January.

Como eyeing January swoop for Zirkzee

According to Corriere Como (via Sport Witness), Como are interested in Zirkzee.

Under one of the richest ownerships around Europe, Como are considering making an ambitious push for the signature of the United star, who joined the Red Devils in a deal worth £36.5 million last summer.

It is claimed Zirkzee “would be a driving force for future growth” at Como. The versatile attacker is seen as an ideal fit for Cesc Fabregas’ side.

The Italian outlet suggests a January move is a possibility for the Netherlands international, as Como’s interest in him is “concrete”.

Zirkzee has been compared to Cunha

In the summer, United resisted offers for the technically gifted player, as he is very highly rated by several key figures at the club.

It is believed “some high up think Zirkzee has the ceiling of new signing Matheus Cunha.”

However, the ex-Bayern Munich sensation is unlikely to reach his full potential at Old Trafford under current circumstances.

Even Cunha is yet to show his best form since moving to United from Wolverhampton Wanderers, and is yet to score or assist for his new club.

Featured image Stu Forster via Getty Images


Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Vishal has worked in the football media industry for over six years, planning, writing, and editing content for several major outlets. Currently a writer at The Peoples Person, he covers Manchester United — a club he has been religiously following and supporting since 2012. Big fan of ball-playing centre-backs and Harry Maguire’s knee-slide celebration!

“If that’s lacking…”: United star explains why Brentford ran riot as pressure on Amorim reaches fever pitch

Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt has swung to the defence of head coach Ruben Amorim as pressure on him intensifies.

Amorim facing fight to keep his job

Amorim is under increased scrutiny following United’s latest disappointing result, a 3-1 defeat to Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday.

United were second best in nearly every department, renewing scrutiny on Amorim, whose 33 games in charge have yielded only 34 points. There have been calls for him to adapt his approach to suit the players at his disposal but the Portuguese coach has made it very clear that he will not change.

While he retains the support of the hierarchy, there is an acceptance that Amorim must oversee an uptick in performances and results.

Already, there are rumours that United have kicked off plans to replace him, with Andoni Iraola, Oliver Glasner and Gareth Southgate on the club’s list.

However, according to De Ligt, Amorim’s system isn’t the issue and the players also need to shoulder some of the responsibility for the club’s woes.

De Ligt defends Amorim

De Ligt said [as quoted by GOAL], “Of course, I mean it’s always easy to look to the manager, but in the end the players on the pitch have to do it.”

“We can’t say the goals we conceded, or the chances we conceded, are because of what… I don’t know, you guys always talk about the system. That also has a lot to do with focus, concentration, and, if that’s lacking in key moments, it’s going to make a difference.”

On United’s inconsistency, De Ligt remarked, “[We are] really disappointed because all week we were speaking about keeping the momentum going, getting another win under our belt.”

“If you lose this game, it’s a big blow, obviously. A lot of time it’s the same song, but we have to stick together — it’s the most important thing.”

“We lost against City, we won against Chelsea, so for the next game we have to analyse what went wrong in this game because a lot of things went wrong. We were short in key moments where we made the wrong decisions.”

“That makes a big difference in football. We were quite unlucky also with some chances, but overall, it was not good enough. That’s a fact.”

United are back in action on Saturday when they welcome newly-promoted Sunderland to Old Trafford.

Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images


Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!

“This is not acceptable”: Rooney pulls no punches as he delivers damning assessment of United under Amorim

Manchester United icon Wayne Rooney pulled no punches as he laid into Ruben Amorim and the club following last weekend’s disappointing result against Brentford.

United’s struggles persist

United have endured a tough start to the season, only winning two of their opening six fixtures. Saturday’s 3-1 loss to Brentford was their third of the campaign, piling further misery on Ruben Amorim and his players.

The Red Devils were comprehensively beaten at the Gtech Community Stadium, where Keith Andrews’ side took full advantage of the visitors’ defensive frailties.

Despite the club’s insistence that Ruben Amorim retains their support and backing, pressure is mounting on the Portuguese coach to overturn the situation. There have already been suggestions that United have begun their search for potential replacements.

Speaking on the Wayne Rooney Show, United’s record goalscorer tore into Amorim, admitting that he has no faith in him to make things right.

Rooney delivered a scathing verdict of the club’s current situation as he called on the owners to urgently intervene.

Rooney’s brutal assessment of United

Rooney said, “It’s just not good enough, from the managers, the coaches, the players. It’s not good enough.”

“I don’t know what’s going on. Ruben Amorim is my age, a bit younger, he’s still a young manager. I’m sure he has a great future. But what is going on at Man Utd? I don’t recognise the whole football club.”

“If you’re saying to me, ‘do you believe he will?’ [turn things round], then, after everything I’ve seen, honestly, I’ve got no faith in it.”

“I don’t see players fighting, I don’t see character, I don’t see a desire to win, I don’t see ability, I don’t see match winners, nothing that gets me off my feet. I go to watch the team and think, ‘here we go again. We’re going to lose, or maybe nick a point. ‘ This is not Manchester United.”

The former England international continued, “I’m seeing players, they don’t deserve to wear the shirt, and it hurts. When you have played for the club and care about it, this is not acceptable what is going on.”

“I think there needs to be a clear message from the owners, whether that’s the Glazers, or that’s Ratcliffe, there needs to be a clear message on where the club is going, because at the minute, we’re all sitting here waiting for it to crumble.”

“It’s not even just results on the pitch. It’s everything about the club that needs fixing. We’re seeing staff members getting sacked after 20, 30 years who are very important people to that football club.”

“The soul has gone from the club. It needs a new engine, a new lease of life. It needs something to kickstart that football club.”

United are back in action on Saturday when they host Sunderland at Old Trafford.

Featured image Richard Pelham via Getty Images


Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!

Academy Briefing: In-form U21s continue busy schedule

0

Skip to Main NavigationSkip to content

Academy Briefing: In-form U21s continue busy schedule

Monday 29 September 2025 16:00

The latest round-up on our world-famous Academy…

NEW DIRECTOR BEGINS WORK

Stephen Torpey has started work as Manchester United’s new Academy director.

Joining from Brentford, Stephen’s appointment as successor to Nick Cox was announced in August. Cox has joined Everton, where he’ll serve as technical director.

Torpey has recently led the rebuilding of Brentford’s youth structure, including the relaunch of a full Academy programme from Under-9s to Under-18s. Prior to his January 2024 arrival at the south-west London club, he had led Academy coaching across all groups at Manchester City, and at the Foundation phase, with Liverpool.

The UEFA A licence-holder outlined his pride at having the opportunity to lead United’s world-famous Academy.

“It is obviously a great time to be joining as the club enters an exciting new era,” he said last month. “I can’t wait to play my role in continuing the incredible tradition of youth development here.”

He began work at Carrington last Monday, and was present at the Under-21s’ exciting Premier League International Cup clash against Athletic Club at Old Trafford on Wednesday evening.

Everyone at the club gives a warm welcome to Stephen and wishes him the best of luck in his new role.

UNDER-21s SECURE LATE WIN AGAINST ATHLETIC

A late Stretford End winner secured a 2-1 win for United in our opening game of the 2025/26 Premier League International Cup, against Athletic Club.

After Asier Hierro converted an 11th-minute free-kick for the visitors, the young Reds had to work hard to find openings against an organised Athletic side.

Substitute Gabriele Biancheri provided the inspiration, with a driving run down the right wing and a cut-back to James Scanlon, who provided a smart, first-time finish. Biancheri then netted an injury-time winner from Jack Fletcher’s cross, with the help of a deflection off the Athletic goalkeeper’s back, which may ensure it’s recorded as an own goal.

Travis Binnion’s United side will face Anderlecht (Leigh Sports Village) and Borussia Dortmund (Old Trafford) in December, before welcoming Sporting in January.

BINNION’S SIDE CONTINUES PL2 RECORD

On Saturday, Binnion’s team extended our 100 per cent record in Premier League 2 with a 4-1 win against Crystal Palace in Salford.

Jacob Devaney got things started as he opened the scoring in first-half stoppage time, before Biancheri added a second shortly after the restart.

Asher Agbinone then pulled one back for the Eagles with a brilliant curling strike from range, but there was still time for more goals at the Peninsula Stadium.

Shea Lacey netted a brace from the bench, with his first a superb free-kick and his second a well-taken effort off the post that ensured a convincing victory.

UNDER-18s’ WINNING STREAK ENDS

Our Under-18s side fell to a first defeat of the season, following a second-half fightback by Manchester City at Carrington.

Gabriel’s well-taken strike and an immaculate Jim Thwaites free-kick had Darren Fletcher’s side in a comfortable position at the break.

But City halved the deficit at the beginning of the second period through Tyrone Samba, before quickfire efforts from Floyd Samba and Harrison Miles put the visitors into the lead.

The Reds’ misery was compounded late on, when goalkeeper Fred Heath was sent off for a challenge on Teddie Lamb outside the box, with Floyd Samba converting the resulting set-piece past Heath’s replacement Zac Watson.

JONES DISCUSSES ACADEMY EXPERIENCE

Ex-Red Phil Jones has described his experience coaching with United’s Academy as “brilliant” after he was around the club’s Under-18s group at times over the last two seasons.

“I was able to learn off the coaches in terms of how they set sessions up, what they’re going after in sessions and learn about the development programme with these kids so they transition from Academy to first team, and what that looks like when they get there, and having a succession plan for them.

“Really promising, really bright. I know there are a few lads who have been in and around and trained with the first team last season.

“Darren Fletcher’s there now, so I’m sure he’s got them all firing on all cylinders and getting the best out of them, so yeah, hopefully we’ll see some of them in the first team in the future.”

You can read more from Jones here.

LOAN WATCH

Several of our players out on loan continued to impress, with notable performances from Radek Vitek, who kept a third clean sheet in seven Championship games for Bristol City, and Ethan Ennis, who netted a second goal in five games for Fleetwood Town.

Full-backs Harry Amass and Habeeb Ogunneye both played a full 90 minutes, with the former doing well in a 1-1 draw for Sheffield Wednesday at home to QPR, and the latter unable to help his Newport County side overcome promotion-chasing Chesterfield in League Two.

Midfielder Dan Gore made his 11th appearance of this season at Rotherham United, for whom he has missed just one game since rejoining on loan in the summer.

Those are just some of the headlines from our loanees, all of whom continue to gain valuable experience away from the club, supported by staff back at Carrington, who are in regular contact and watch each game.

COMING UP THIS WEEK

Our Under-21s continue a busy schedule with a Tuesday evening trip to Lincoln City. While the game isn’t live on MUTV, it will be shown on SkySports+.

Tickets are available here.

We last faced the Imps in this competition in October 2019, when James Garner – now enjoying a successful Premier League career with Everton – netted the only goal of the game. Also in that side were others who have built excellent experience across European football, like Matej Kovar (PSV Eindhoven), Teden Mengi (Luton Town), Ethan Galbraith (Swansea City), Largie Ramazani (Valencia), Tahith Chong (Sheffield United), Dylan Levitt (Hibernian) and Anthony Elanga (Newcastle United).

MUTV INFO AT A GLANCE

Tuesday 30 September | Lincoln City v UNITED U21s | 19:00 | Not live on MUTV (live on Sky Sports+)

Friday 3 October | Everton v UNITED U21s | 19:00 | Live on MUTV

Saturday 4 October | Middlesbrough v UNITED U18s | 12:00 | Not live on MUTV (Clash with first-team fixture)

Recommended:

Monday 29 September 2025 16:00

Back to Top

Gareth Southgate to Man United takes sharp turn after speculation of a direct meeting with Ratcliffe – ESPN

A new update has been issued on the likelihood of Gareth Southgate succeeding Ruben Amorim at Manchester United, amid rumours that the former England boss has already met with Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Southgate on United’s list of potential Amorim replacements

Amorim is facing a tough battle to keep his job following United’s latest setback, a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Brentford last Saturday.

The loss was United’s third of the 2025/26 Premier League season and it left them in 14th place.

United have taken just 34 points from the 33 games Amorim has taken charge of since he was named head coach in November last year. He has yet to muster back-to-back wins in his 11 months at the helm.

Speculation is mounting that United are drawing up contingency plans in case they decide to part ways with Amorim. While he still retains the support of Ratcliffe and the football leadership group, there is an acceptance that results need to drastically improve if he is to keep his job.

A report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that United have drawn up a three-man shortlist of potential replacements, which includes Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraola and Southgate. The report claimed that Ratcliffe had held meetings with Southgate in recent weeks.

However, according to ESPN, Ratcliffe and Southgate have not had contact.

Southgate to United update

ESPN’s Rob Dawson reveals, “United sources have insisted the club are not currently looking for replacements for Amorim and had denied speculation that co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has already met Gareth Southgate.”

“The former England boss was under consideration as a possible replacement for Erik ten Hag before Amorim’s appointment.”

It’s understood that United chiefs want to give Amorim as much time as possible to turn things around.

Ahead of United’s game with Sunderland this weekend, Amorim is preparing as normal, with the Portuguese coach given no indication that he may be sacked before then.

It’s been “business as usual” for Amorim.


Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social

Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!