Fabrizio Romano: What Man Utd are really planning after Ruben Amorim’s sacking

Robin Bairner

8 Jan 2026 07:33 GMT
5 min read

Manchester United are assessing their short-term and long-term managerial strategy following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim, with compensation details now clear and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer emerging as the leading interim option.

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Darren Fletcher was in charge for the 2-2 Premier League draw against Burnley on Wednesday, but the Red Devils’ U19 boss is unlikely to be in the interim position for long, as Fabrizio Romano explained.

Ruben Amorim sacking and compensation explained

Man Utd’s decision to dismiss Ruben Amorim has financial and strategic implications for the club.

“Manchester United decided on Monday to sack Ruben Amorim with immediate effect, a strong decision taken by the club after a difficult period,” Romano told his YouTube channel.

“This situation is different to what happened with Enzo Maresca at Chelsea. In that case, Maresca decided to leave and the club agreed. Here, the decision was made entirely by Manchester United.

“Amorim had said publicly he would not resign unless the board decided otherwise, and less than 12 hours later the club chose to terminate his contract.

“Manchester United will now pay around £10 million in compensation to Amorim and his staff, as he was under contract until June 2027.

“If another club approaches Amorim in the next 18 months, Manchester United could negotiate a different exit agreement, but for now the total compensation package is fixed.

“The full cost of the Amorim appointment, including salary, compensation and the fee paid to Sporting in November 2024, reaches approximately £27 million.”

© IMAGO - Ruben Amorim: Sacked by Man Utd

Solskjaer talks progress over interim role

The Old Trafford side are advancing discussions over a caretaker manager until the end of the season, with a familiar face ready to take charge.

“Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is ready and willing to return to Manchester United and is the leading candidate for the caretaker role,” Romano added.

“Meetings have already taken place and I am told they were positive. Solskjaer has made it clear there are no issues regarding contract length, salary or timing.

© IMAGO - Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: Soon back at the wheel

“He wants to help Manchester United and is ready to sign as soon as the club gives the green light.

“Talks have also taken place with Michael Carrick, but at the moment Solskjaer remains the clear favourite.

“The idea is to appoint a caretaker manager now, then move for a permanent head coach in summer 2026.”

Manchester United’s long-term manager strategy

But with Solskjaer set to take over until the end of the season, United are also holding talks about their next permanent manager.

“Manchester United will immediately start internal conversations about their future head coach while the caretaker is in place,” Romano said.

“One key factor will be Premier League experience. The club want someone who can make an instant impact and handle the pressure of this role.

© IMAGO - Could Thomas Tuchel and Mason Mount be reunited?

“Trusting young players and playing quality football will also be essential parts of the project, especially for INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

“You will hear many names linked to this job, but the club know they cannot afford another mistake after what happened with Amorim.”

Past targets and future possibilities

Several high-profile managers remain on Manchester United’s long-term radar.

Romano explained: “In summer 2024, Thomas Tuchel and Roberto De Zerbi both met with Manchester United when the club were assessing their options.

“They did not reject Manchester United as a club, but felt that moment was not the right time to take the job.

© IMAGO - Roberto De Zerbi: Marseille boss has talked to Man Utd before

“Tuchel is now focused on the England national team, while De Zerbi is fully committed to Marseille.

“There is also a World Cup coming, which could change the availability of several managers.

“This is why Manchester United are planning early and involving everyone internally, from Omar Berrada to Jason Wilcox and the ownership group.”

Next steps at Old Trafford

In the immediate future, Man Utd are set to move to appoint their interim boss.

“The next step is appointing the caretaker manager, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confident and ready to take the job,” Romano confirmed.

“Jonny Evans is already back helping the backroom staff, and more structural decisions will follow.

“It will be a busy few months for Manchester United, with short-term stability and long-term planning running in parallel, as the club prepare for a permanent managerial appointment starting from summer 2026.”

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