Ruben Amorim still retains the backing of the Manchester United board but looks set to be offered an escape route from Old Trafford.
Following the Premier League giants’ elimination from the Carabao Cup by League Two team Grimsby Town, Amorim’s position is under intense scrutiny.
Prior to scoring two late goals to force the second-round match to penalties, United trailed by two goals in the first half of Wednesday’s cup match.
However, the League Two team proceeded with a 12–11 victory in the penalty shootout, completing a stunning shock and casting more doubt on Amorim’s future.
Manchester United lost to Tottenham in the Europa League final, finishing just 15th in the Premier League the previous season and missing out on European qualification.
United supporters had hope after a bright summer transfer window, but the Red Devils lost to Arsenal on the first day and only drew 1-1 with Fulham the previous weekend.
Perhaps the club’s lowest point since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013 was an embarrassing loss to Grimsby.
According to The Times, Manchester United is still supporting Amorim to turn things around even after they lost to a League Two team.
Although some supporters want Amorim fired, the club’s board, which includes co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, still supports the former Sporting Lisbon manager.
Ratcliffe is willing to give Amorim more time, but if Manchester United struggles over the weekend, that patience will be put to the test.
Amorim will therefore continue to lead the team on Saturday when United plays Burnley, a Premier League newcomer, in a crucial game at Old Trafford.
Before United plays two difficult games against Manchester City and Chelsea, Amorim will have time to think back on the first few weeks of the 2025–26 season during the ensuing international break.
The Times claims that although Amorim still has the support of his superiors, Benfica, another former team, may offer him a way out.
Amorim had a great playing career at Benfica, winning three league titles with the team, but he is best remembered for his tenure as Sporting’s manager, during which he won two league titles.
It is thought that Joao Noronha Lopes, who plans to take over as Benfica president, is a “big fan” of Amorim and would want to see him return to the team.
In October, Benfica will hold its presidential elections, and Lopes is one of five contenders vying to replace incumbent Rui Costa.
In response to a recent question concerning Amorim, Lopes stated, “He’s an excellent coach, under contract with Manchester United.” “I refuse to undermine Benfica.” They have a crucial game in front of them.
Following the humbling loss to Grimsby Town, Amorim expressed regret to Manchester United supporters and acknowledged that he was unable to provide an explanation for the subpar performance against a team in the fourth division of English football.
“No, but I’m the manager,” Amorim responded when asked if he could believe what had happened at Blundell Park. It should be my responsibility to comprehend what transpired.
Once more, I sincerely apologize to our fans. Let’s concentrate on the upcoming match. I have nothing to say, but I would like to say some really wise and significant things [on how to get better].
Amorim, who took over for Erik ten Hag in November of last year, has only won seven of his 29 Premier League games as manager.
Burnley, Manchester United’s next opponents, defeated fellow recently promoted Sunderland last weekend after losing to Tottenham on the first day.
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