The atmosphere at Manchester United shifted dramatically, a tremor felt most keenly by those whose futures hung in the balance. Ruben Amorim’s 14-month tenure ended abruptly, a decision that immediately reshaped the landscape for several players within the squad.
A key point of contention leading to Amorim’s dismissal was a strained relationship with director of football Jason Wilcox, fueled by frustration over a perceived lack of investment during the January transfer window. Despite a significant £200 million spent on bolstering the squad the previous summer, Amorim believed further additions were crucial to address injuries and cover for players at the Africa Cup of Nations.
The change in management sparked immediate speculation about player futures, and few were more affected than young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. Once considered a rising star, Mainoo had found himself increasingly marginalized under Amorim, even requesting a move away from Old Trafford both last summer and again in January.
More than a dozen clubs had expressed interest in acquiring Mainoo, but the sudden departure of Amorim dramatically altered his trajectory. Club legend Rio Ferdinand was quick to declare Mainoo the “biggest winner” of the managerial change, predicting a revitalized role for the young talent.
“There’s no doubt in my mind that Kobbie Mainoo will be walking back in the building today with a bouncing step,” Ferdinand stated, acknowledging the inevitable fallout for those departing while highlighting Mainoo’s potential resurgence.
While Mainoo’s fortunes appeared to be turning, another player faced a different fate. Joshua Zirkzee, brought to the club by former manager Erik ten Hag in a deal worth nearly £40 million, had struggled to make an impact in the Premier League.
Zirkzee, eager to secure his place in the Netherlands’ World Cup squad, was reportedly open to a move to Serie A giants Roma, seeking consistent game time to reignite his career. Despite flashes of potential – a goal against Wolves and an assist at Leeds – it wasn’t enough to convince Amorim of his long-term value.
Interestingly, former United midfielder Owen Hargreaves had recently advocated for Zirkzee, praising his ability to create opportunities and make a difference when given a chance. He emphasized Zirkzee’s technical skill and impact on the game, qualities that seemingly weren’t fully appreciated.
Another player facing an uncertain future was Manuel Ugarte, a signing also linked to the Ten Hag era. The midfielder had attracted interest from Galatasaray, and reports suggested personal terms were already agreed. A scathing assessment from club legend Nicky Butt, who declared Ugarte “not a Manchester United midfielder in a million years,” underscored the growing dissatisfaction with his performances.
Butt’s blunt critique highlighted a recurring theme: a pattern of questionable recruitment decisions that continued to plague the club. The departure of Amorim, and the potential reshaping of the squad, signaled a desperate attempt to correct course and finally find the right formula for success.
