Manchester United draw up a 12-man shortlist to replace Amorim

Manchester United have officially ended Ruben Amorim’s spell at Old Trafford and have immediately begun the search for his successor. 

Since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013, the club have struggled to find stability on the bench, cycling through managers without restoring sustained success.

Darren Fletcher has taken charge on an interim basis, but the club hierarchy already view his role as temporary while a long-term solution is identified. According to the English press, several high-profile names have emerged as potential candidates. Free agents such as Xavi, Gareth Southgate, Enzo Maresca and Zinedine Zidane appear on the radar, alongside coaches currently in work like Unai Emery, Roberto De Zerbi, Andoni Iraola and Eddie Howe.

Manchester United also keep an eye on younger profiles, including Kieran McKenna, whose work at Ipswich has attracted attention, while Michael Carrick remains an internal option familiar with the club’s environment.

However, Oliver Glasner currently stands out as the leading contender. The Crystal Palace coach, whose contract expires this summer, appeals to United’s decision-makers for his tactical discipline and results in difficult contexts. While no final decision has been made, one thing remains clear: the Manchester United bench continues to resemble a high-risk seat, and the next appointment could shape the club’s direction for years to come.