Fletcher takes interim charge of Man Utd after Amorim sacking

Following the 1-1 draw at Leeds United yesterday, Amorim had said: “I just want to say that I’m going to be the manager of this team, not just the coach. I was really clear on that.”

In a statement this morning, United announced: “With Manchester United sitting sixth in the Premier League, the club’s leadership has reluctantly made the decision that it is the right time to make a change.

“This will give the team the best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish. The club would like to thank Ruben for his contribution to the club and wishes him well for the future.”

Fletcher will now take charge of the team against Burnley on Wednesday. The Scot, who played for United from 2002 to 2015, has held a variety of roles at the club since returning in October 2020 as U16s coach.

He went on to become a First-Team Coach under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in January 2021 and then Technical Director alongside Football Director John Murtough in March 2021.

This role had a remit of providing “technical advice across all aspects of the football department”, but there was some confusion about what it actually involved, as a tracksuited Fletcher often a regular presence on the bench on matchdays.

Fletcher then switched back to First-Team Coach under Erik ten Hag and continued to assist on sessions and offer guidance to players and analysts under Amorim.

As U18s Head Coach, Fletcher has led a team for the first time, aiding his long-term ambition of becoming a manager at senior level. The Scot’s sons, Jack and Tyler, are now part of the first-team set-up at the club.

Another Manchester United Academy graduate and long-time first-team player, Jonny Evans, will assist Fletcher during his interim period in charge.

Until last month, Evans was Head of Loans at United, but stepped down in order to spend more time with his family.