After a string of disappointing results and their worst start in over three decades, Ruben Amorim’s position as Manchester United manager is hanging by a thread. The Old Trafford hierarchy has already drawn up a shortlist of replacements, with Gareth Southgate emerging as the frontrunner.
Ruben Amorim’s future at Old Trafford is approaching a decisive crossroads. Since replacing Erik ten Hag in November 2024, the Portuguese coach was expected to bring a fresh identity to the Red Devils. Yet his tenure so far has left both the boardroom and supporters disillusioned.
In 31 Premier League matches under his reign, United have managed only eight wins. The 2025/26 campaign has begun in disastrous fashion, with the club sitting near the foot of the table—a situation not seen in 33 years. Once hailed as a bold appointment, Amorim is now staring at the prospect of being dismissed less than a year into the job.
Southgate tops the replacement shortlist
According to English media, United’s leadership has already prepared a contingency plan. A five-man shortlist has been drawn up, with former England manager Gareth Southgate identified as the leading candidate.
Southgate is no stranger to Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Last November, the British billionaire seriously considered appointing him as Ten Hag’s successor before opting for Amorim in search of a more attacking style. With Amorim failing to deliver, Southgate is once again seen as the safer, more pragmatic option.
Other names on the list include Oliver Glasner (Crystal Palace), Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth), and Marco Silva (Fulham). Mauricio Pochettino, who previously managed Chelsea and Tottenham, is also under consideration. In fact, after leaving Chelsea in 2024, Pochettino held talks with United, though no agreement was reached.
Three games to decide Amorim’s fate
Despite growing pressure, the board has not rushed into a decision. Instead, Amorim has been handed a final chance to save his job with three upcoming fixtures.
This weekend, United will host Chelsea at Old Trafford, followed by a trip to Brentford on September 27, before facing Sunderland at home. This run is widely viewed as make-or-break for Amorim. Failure to deliver results could see him follow in Ten Hag’s footsteps—sacked just nine games into last season.
Why Southgate appeals to United
Southgate’s biggest strength lies in man-management. During his near-decade with the England national team, he built a cohesive squad, guiding the Three Lions to the EURO 2020 final and the 2022 World Cup quarterfinals. His ability to manage dressing-room dynamics is precisely what United need as player confidence in Amorim plummets.
Moreover, Southgate’s deep knowledge of English football and strong rapport with domestic stars could help United rebuild their identity and restore fighting spirit.
However, his weaknesses are also well documented. Critics have long accused him of favoring caution over tactical innovation. In the demanding Premier League environment—where entertainment and effectiveness are equally essential—his conservative style could be seen as a liability.
A tough decision for United
Replacing a manager mid-season is never straightforward. United’s hierarchy faces a difficult choice: remain patient with Amorim in the hope of stability, or act decisively to salvage the campaign. Leaning toward Southgate reflects a desire for order and discipline rather than risky tactical experiments.
In the short term, Southgate could provide the unity and structure needed to steady the ship. But restoring United to the summit of English and European football will likely require more than just damage control.
What’s next for the Red Devils?
The coming three matches may determine not only Amorim’s future but also United’s trajectory for years ahead. Should results fail to improve, Southgate could be installed at Old Trafford as early as the end of September.
For Sir Jim Ratcliffe, the decision will shape both the remainder of this season and the club’s long-term revival. Whether it’s Amorim, Southgate, or another candidate, the United hot seat remains one of the most daunting challenges in world football.