Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is facing mounting scrutiny after his side’s 3-1 defeat to Brentford at the weekend, a result that intensified criticism from both fans and pundits.
The Portuguese coach, who is still searching for his first back-to-back Premier League win, has endured a rocky start to life at Old Trafford.
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Amorim’s underwhelming record, marked by the lowest win percentage of any manager in United’s modern history, has led many supporters to call for change.
Critics argue that his rigid tactical approach, and refusal to adapt to the strengths of his squad, has left the team looking predictable and ineffective.
Despite the growing unrest, Amorim reportedly still retains the backing of minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe and director of football Jason Wilcox. The United hierarchy is believed to be hopeful that the manager can turn things around if the players raise their performance levels.
Nevertheless, reports suggest the club has begun drawing up contingency plans. A shortlist of potential replacements has emerged, with former England manager Gareth Southgate and ex-Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez among the leading contenders.
Both are said to be viewed as tactically flexible options who could bring a new direction to Old Trafford.
Also on the radar are Oliver Glasner, who has impressed at Crystal Palace, and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, whose high-intensity football has won plaudits early this season.
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Former Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has once again been linked with United, with speculation persisting about his long-term interest in managing in the Premier League.
Fresh reports indicate that Xavi himself is keen on a move to England, with sources suggesting he sees Manchester United as the ideal platform for the next stage of his managerial career. Whether the board chooses patience with Amorim or decides on a change, the pressure on the Portuguese coach is unlikely to ease in the coming weeks.
