Rúben Amorim goes into tonight’s
Europa League final with his job not under immediate threat — even if
Manchester United fall short against Tottenham Hotspur.
But while the club’s leadership insists he will stay, speculation is mounting about how long the honeymoon period will truly last.
Amorim, who arrived mid-season from Sporting CP, was handed a difficult brief: stabilise a fractured squad and steer United through a turbulent campaign.
While Premier League form has been poor — United finished 16th — the club’s unexpected run to the
Europa League final has given fans hope of a fresh start under new ownership.
“It is a bit strange that my job is safe even if we lose,” Amorim admitted in a pre-match press conference. “But the club has shown understanding. This is a long-term project.”
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have reportedly assured Amorim that his position is secure heading into the summer, regardless of the result in Bilbao. Their vision focuses on squad development, structural reform, and financial discipline — rather than short-term success.
Still, bookmakers have already begun publishing odds on potential successors.
Names such as Massimiliano Allegri, Oliver Glasner, and Mauricio Pochettino have been floated should results go south early next season.
“The board sees the bigger picture — but this is Manchester United,” said a club insider to
The Sun. “You never want to start the next season under pressure.”
Amorim’s tactical style, youth development credentials, and calm leadership have been well received behind the scenes. He is also heavily involved in United’s transfer strategy, backing moves for Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and former player Viktor Gyökeres.
But fans remain divided. A win tonight could galvanize support and buy Amorim valuable time to implement his philosophy. A loss, especially if it’s a poor performance, could reopen conversations about whether the Portuguese coach is the right man for the job.
One thing is certain: Amorim’s position is safe for now, but how United start next season — and how they invest this summer — will be critical in determining how long that remains true.