Manchester United Must Turn to Club Legends After Amorim Exit

Manchester United should look to old boys like Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Darren Fletcher to heal the wounds left by Ruben Amorim’s reign, as the club grapples with the challenges of the INEOS-led structure.

Manchester United’s Identity Crisis Under INEOS

Manchester United’s ongoing struggles stem from a disconnect between its storied traditions and the new, highly structured INEOS system. The appointment of Ruben Amorim as ‘head coach’ instead of the traditional ‘manager’ signaled a shift, placing limits on his autonomy—especially regarding transfers and tactics. Amorim, like Thomas Tuchel before him, found these constraints unworkable. Both coaches wanted more control, but INEOS’s hands-on approach deterred elite managers seeking greater independence.

The Tough Realities of the Old Trafford Hotseat

Managing Manchester United brings unique pressures that even the most decorated managers—such as Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho—found overwhelming. Former United defender Phil Jones aptly noted that “the United shirt is heavy to wear,” a sentiment echoed by several former players and managers. Since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure, high-profile appointments have failed to navigate the scrutiny and expectations at Old Trafford, leading to a revolving door of coaches unable to bring stability or success.

Why United Should Trust Its Own—Solskjaer, Fletcher, Carrick

Turning to club legends like Solskjaer, Fletcher, or Michael Carrick could provide much-needed unity. Their deep understanding of Manchester United’s culture makes them uniquely qualified to handle the pressures and intricacies of the club. Solskjaer’s previous stint saw him foster a positive atmosphere, achieve back-to-back top-four finishes, and guide United to a Europa League final and several domestic cup semi-finals. Critically, he maintained player morale and refrained from public criticism, actions that built trust and harmony within the squad.

Fletcher, who is set to take interim charge, has been with United in various roles since 2020, giving him unparalleled insight into the squad and academy. Similarly, Carrick’s brief tenure as caretaker demonstrated a calm, steady influence. These figures understand the demands of Old Trafford—both on and off the pitch—and have proven their commitment to the club’s ethos.

Financial and Cultural Sense for Manchester United

From a financial perspective, sticking with those who bleed United red is also pragmatic. The club has spent over £42 million on failed managerial appointments in the last year alone, with sacking Ten Hag, Amorim, and others proving costly. With debt reaching a record £1.29 billion, Manchester United can ill afford another expensive misstep.

Moreover, after years of diminishing morale under the Glazers and now INEOS’s cost-cutting, hiring managers who care deeply about the club can help restore unity. Solskjaer, Fletcher, and Carrick are not motivated by money, but by their desire to rebuild the club from within.

Manchester United’s Path Forward: Back to Its Roots

While some may argue that reappointing Solskjaer or promoting Fletcher or Carrick is a step backward, it aligns with Manchester United’s need for stability and identity. The current INEOS model, which prioritizes structure over soul, risks alienating top coaching talent and further eroding the club’s spirit. By embracing those who have lived and breathed United, the club can start to rebuild from the inside out.

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Opinion: Reconnecting with the United Spirit

In my view, Manchester United’s salvation lies in reconnecting with its core values and history. Appointing insiders who understand the club’s DNA won’t just stabilize the first team—it will reenergize supporters and reestablish the club’s identity. Sometimes, the way forward is to trust in those who know the way home.