Man Utd's three main targets if they do decide to sack Ruben Amorim

by Tim Hanlon

Monday, 29 September 2025 at 10:47

Manchester United are keeping a close watch on three Premier League-based managers—Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraola, and Fabian Hürzeler—as pressure intensifies on head coach Rúben Amorim.

The Portuguese manager is facing intense scrutiny after Saturday’s defeat to Brentford, which marked the club’s third league loss in six games and his 17th Premier League defeat in just 33 matches since taking over last November.

United’s 15th-place finish last season, their worst since 1974, has only compounded the current woes.

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While club sources maintain that Amorim, the first managerial appointment under co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, still retains the hierarchy’s support, the club is actively accepting speculation around his role.

The Candidates: Premier League Proven

United’s new search criteria reportedly place an emphasis on Premier League-proven talent, which has narrowed the focus to three current top-flight bosses:

Oliver Glasner (Crystal Palace): A strong candidate, Glasner led the Eagles to their first-ever major trophy in the FA Cup last season and has them currently as the Premier League’s only unbeaten side. His European pedigree—winning the Europa League with Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022—is also noted. However, he shares the same rigid 3-4-2-1 formation that critics argue is holding Amorim’s United back.
Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth): He is credited with leading the Cherries to an impressive ninth-place finish last season and has them currently sitting third, showcasing a progressive and successful managerial style.
Fabian Hürzeler (Brighton): Having replaced Roberto De Zerbi at the start of last season, the young German guided the Seagulls to an eighth-place finish and is building on that success.

Southgate’s Star Fades

The new focus on domestic experience is having a notable impact on the chances of former England manager Gareth Southgate.

With no Premier League club management experience since 2009, and his friend and ally, United director Sir Dave Brailsford, having a reduced presence at Old Trafford, Southgate's stock is reportedly dropping.

Meanwhile, despite reports suggesting former Barcelona boss Xavi would be "extremely keen" on the job, United are not believed to have shown any interest.

Amorim’s Defiance

Amorim, who has overseen £256.82 million in new signings, insists he is the right man to turn the results around.

"I'm always confident as I know what to do," the manager stated. "When you lose, you go back to the same place and you fight again for one win that can help you to create the momentum."

The pressure will only intensify, with a home game against Sunderland next week followed by a daunting trip to Anfield on October 19th, a ground where United are winless in their last ten visits.