Manchester United faces a leadership and tactical crisis following Ruben Amorim’s exit and an FA Cup collapse, leaving Ineos struggling to prove they have a viable plan for the club’s future.
Manchester United’s season has plunged to a new low following their FA Cup exit against Brighton, leaving the club managerless and facing its shortest season in over a century.
Despite spending approximately £450 million under Ineos, the club remains without a clear tactical identity or silverware to play for.
Supporters filtered out of Old Trafford in frustration as the leadership team of Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada appears unable to establish a consistent formula.
The dismissal of Ruben Amorim followed a controversial press conference where he criticized the club’s hierarchy.
Amorim’s exit highlights a growing rift between the coaching staff and directors over tactical interference.
Midfielder Diogo Dalot described the period as “really difficult,” adding, “It’s always a period that you have to find ways to solve problems really quickly. We have to adapt and go again.”
However, critics argue the club is merely creating more problems.
On the pitch, the team remains a disjointed collection of players signed by five different permanent managers. Tactical confusion reigned against Brighton, with players frequently appearing out of position.
Technical Director Darren Fletcher noted that the squad must take ownership, stating, “It’s not about a manager. It’s not about directors. It’s about everyone and the players have to group together, take responsibility, find a way of improving quickly and taking on the challenge.”
Off the pitch, the Ineos strategy appears increasingly muddled as the club pivots from a head coach model back to seeking an interim with Premier League experience.
Plans for a permanent mid-season appointment have been scrapped in favor of a summer search for elite names like Thomas Tuchel or Carlo Ancelotti.
This shifting strategy has led to a planned protest against Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family ahead of the upcoming match against Fulham.
With matches against Manchester City and Arsenal looming, United sit in a precarious position despite still being mathematically in the hunt for Champions League qualification.
The lack of a “game model” and the revolving door of leadership have left fans demanding evidence of a long-term plan.
As Fletcher warned, the players must not “waste the season,” yet the lack of clarity from the boardroom continues to undermine progress at Old Trafford.