Manchester United has officially parted ways with head coach Ruben Amorim, bringing an abrupt end to the "Portuguese Revolution" at Old Trafford.
The decision, confirmed by the club’s board on Monday morning, follows a dismal festive period that saw the Red Devils slip to ninth in the Premier League table, trailing 15 points behind the Champions League spots.
Amorim, who joined with immense fanfare from Sporting CP in late 2024, initially brought a sense of tactical clarity to the side. However, by late 2025, his signature three-at-the-back system became a source of friction.
Reports from the Carrington "grapevine" suggest a breakdown in relations with senior players over rigorous tactical demands and a perceived lack of flexibility during a string of high-profile defeats to rivals.
As the club begins its search for yet another permanent manager, the rumour mill is in overdrive.
The most prominent name in the "grapevine" is Xabi Alonso, though prying him away from a successful project mid-season remains a tall order.
In the immediate term, Zinedine Zidane continues to be the "dream" candidate for many fans, though the Frenchman’s historical reluctance to manage in England remains a hurdle.
More pragmatic rumours point toward Thomas Frank of Brentford or a return to the elite level for Graham Potter, who has spent the last year rebuilding his reputation.
For now, the club has placed the first-team coaching staff in temporary charge while the INEOS-led sporting department assesses a shortlist designed to save what remains of the 2025/26 campaign.