INEOS interviewed him in 2024: Man Utd keen on hiring “genius” Amorim upgrade
Manchester United have an uncertain couple of weeks ahead of them, after Ruben Amorim was dismissed from his manager position at Old Trafford.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe was a huge advocate for handing the 40-year-old an extended period to turn things around in Manchester, but a breakdown in the relationship has brought any plans to an abrupt end.
It’s been reported that Jason Wilcox suffered a breakdown in his relationship with the former Portuguese international, with his sacking confirmed early on Monday morning.
Darren Fletcher has already been installed as a temporary replacement whilst INEOS work tirelessly to identify a long-term replacement for the outgoing Amorim.
It remains to be seen who could take the reins in the near future, but numerous names have already emerged on their shortlist in recent hours after the announcement.
Man Utd want to appoint former PL boss to replace Amorim
Over the last couple of hours, a whole host of managers have been touted with a move to join United – whether that be as a long-term or short-term appointment.
Former temporary boss Michael Carrick is just one name that has been mentioned after previously managing three first-team matches at the end of 2021.
Other managers, such as Oliver Glasner, Kieran McKenna and Gareth Southgate, have all been named as potential options in the hunt to replace Amorim.
However, the quartet aren’t the only options currently in INEOS’ sights, with Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi another option being considered by the hierarchy.
According to the Telegraph, support is growing behind the scenes for the Italian boss who was previously interviewed for the role back in 2024 before Amorim’s arrival.
It also states that the 46-year-old, who’s achieved a 58% win record in France, would offer a Premier League proven option after managing Brighton and Hove Albion.
Why De Zerbi would be the perfect Amorim upgrade
Back in November 2024, the appointment of Amorim by the United board was seen as an exciting one after winning the Liga Portugal title twice with Sporting CP.
However, as seen by the 15th-placed finish in England’s top-flight last campaign, his spell in charge of the Red Devils was nothing short of a disaster.
From the terrible league finish, to a second-round Carabao Cup exit to League Two outfit Grimsby Town – it truly was a period to forget for the United fanbase.
The 40-year-old was only able to achieve a 40% win record across all competitions, subsequently winning just 25 matches out of the 63 outings he led in Manchester.
Such numbers, coupled with his breakdown in a relationship with Wilcox and Co, no doubt contributed to his demise and ultimately, dismissal from his position.
However, as previously mentioned, the hierarchy have wasted no time in identifying replacements, with De Zerbi potentially being an excellent option for the Red Devils.
Whilst any deal would require a compensation package, it could be a move that would see the club land a huge upgrade on Amorim – as seen by their respective Premier League stats.
When comparing their figures, the Italian has dominated Amorim in countless areas, all whilst doing so at Brighton – a club with much lower funds than the Red Devils.
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The Italian, who’s been dubbed a “genius” by Statman Dave, has achieved a better points per game record in England’s top-flight, whilst also achieving a better win percentage.
How De Zerbi & Amorim compare in the PL
Statistics
De Zerbi
Amorim
Games managed
70
47
Wins
26
15
Draws
19
13
Losses
25
19
Goals scored
116
66
Goals against
110
72
Points per game
1.39
1.23
Stats via Transfermarkt
Such figures reflect his incredible ability to make his sides hard to beat, which is something that has been far too easy for opposition sides making the trip to Old Trafford.
He’s also conceded fewer goals per game, whilst also scoring more, showcasing the impact he’s able to have on his sides at either end of the pitch in the Premier League.
De Zerbi has also achieved a higher finish come the end of a season compared to the former Red Devils boss, with his record deserving of a chance to thrive in Manchester.
It’s unclear if De Zerbi himself would be open to the role at present, but it’s clear he has all the tools needed to bring the glory days back to the Theatre of Dreams.
He would no doubt be an upgrade on Amorim based on their respective spells in England, with the next appointment massive if the club are to be a dominant force once again.
Mainoo will love him: INEOS considering re-hiring 4-2-3-1 manager at Man Utd
Manchrester United have a huge task on their hands to replace Ruben Amorim after his sacking.
ByEthan Lamb