🔴 Who Could Replace Ruben Amorim at Manchester United? Top Candidates to Watch Amid Rising Pressure

As speculation swirls around Ruben Amorim’s future at Manchester United, attention is quickly turning to who could take the reins at Old Trafford if the Portuguese coach is shown the door. With United struggling in the Premier League and suffering a humiliating Carabao Cup exit to League Two side Grimsby, the early promise of Amorim’s appointment is quickly unraveling. The Red Devils may soon be facing another managerial search — and some familiar and intriguing names are already being linked.

Amorim Under Fire: A Rocky Start Raising Red Flags

When Ruben Amorim arrived at Manchester United, there was hope he could usher in a new tactical era. But six games into the Premier League season, United have managed just two wins — and their Carabao Cup exit, sealed in a penalty shootout against minnows Grimsby Town, has deepened the crisis. Amorim’s sideline tactics — most memorably adjusting magnets on a tactics board while 2-0 down to Grimsby — have already drawn unfavorable comparisons to infamous moments in past United failures.

Unless results turn dramatically, the club may once again be forced to search for a new managerial solution. Here are the leading candidates being discussed.

10. Laurent Blanc – A Familiar Face on the Market

A former United defender and seasoned manager, Laurent Blanc recently parted ways with Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. His experience and understanding of the club’s culture make him a sentimental option, though questions remain over his recent managerial form.

9. Brendan Rodgers – Premier League-Proven, But a Red Flag?

Currently managing Celtic, Brendan Rodgers has the credentials and Premier League experience. However, his ties to Liverpool make him an unlikely fit for Old Trafford. While linked with future jobs, Nottingham Forest seems a more realistic destination than United.

7. Michael Carrick – The Loyal Insider

Carrick’s deep connection with Manchester United is undeniable. He’s served as a caretaker before and is admired for his football intelligence. But after being dismissed by Middlesbrough earlier this year — a team now thriving under his replacement — his stock may have dipped. Still, he’s a likely short-term option if needed.

7. Unai Emery – Tactical Reviver

Currently under pressure at Aston Villa, Unai Emery is the kind of tactician who could immediately upgrade United’s performance. With a track record of improving underperforming squads, his name is one to watch, especially if Villa’s struggles continue.

5. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer – The Wildcard Return?

Could the club really turn back to Ole? Stranger things have happened at Old Trafford. While it seems improbable, the idea of Solskjaer returning in any capacity — especially short-term — can’t be ruled out entirely.

5. Julian Nagelsmann – The Dream Hire, But Not Just Yet

Nagelsmann has committed to managing Germany through Euro 2028, which appears to put any club move on hold. Still, the allure of Premier League football — and the challenge of United — may be too tempting long-term. Just don’t expect anything before the next World Cup.

4. Andoni Iraola – The Rising Star

After guiding Bournemouth to unexpected heights in the Premier League, Iraola is now being considered for bigger jobs. But the leap from Bournemouth to Manchester United is massive, and while his name is trending upward, he remains a longer shot for now.

3. Xavi – The Stylish Rebuilder?

Reports from Spain suggest some United directors see Xavi as a perfect fit — particularly because of his commitment to possession-based football, reminiscent of what the club has missed since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure. Out of work since leaving Barcelona after the 2023/24 season, Xavi has openly expressed interest in managing a “special” Premier League club. United certainly qualifies on that front.

2. Gareth Southgate – The Politician of Football

Southgate was heavily linked with United last summer after guiding England to another European final. While he has publicly distanced himself from future club roles, insiders continue to suggest he’s being considered. Still, his potential appointment would likely be divisive among supporters.

1. Oliver Glasner – The Tactical Fit

Currently riding high at Crystal Palace, Oliver Glasner has become the frontrunner for many pundits. His FA Cup win and efficient style of play have impressed the Premier League community. Most importantly, he uses a similar system to Amorim, meaning he could slot into the current squad with minimal disruption. With Spurs no longer in the hunt for a manager, Glasner’s stock at Old Trafford has never been higher.