Ferdinand Shortlists Three Big Names for United Post-Amorim

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has wasted no time in offering a roadmap for his former club following the shock dismissal of Ruben Amorim on Monday morning. In the wake of a turbulent 14-month tenure that ended abruptly after an explosive draw against Leeds United, Ferdinand took to social media to name his preferred trio of world-class managers to take the reins at Old Trafford. The former defender’s shortlist features a blend of tactical innovation and elite experience: Roberto De Zerbi, Thomas Tuchel, and Xavi Hernandez.

The dismissal of Amorim marks yet another high-profile failure under the INEOS regime, with the Portuguese coach departing just months after leading the team to a Europa League final in Bilbao. While results had improved—with United currently sitting 6th compared to last season’s 15th-place finish—a breakdown in relationships with senior management reportedly sealed his fate. Ferdinand, writing on his X handle, suggested that the club should now look toward established names who can handle the immense scrutiny of the Theatre of Dreams.

Among Ferdinand’s top picks is Roberto De Zerbi, the current Marseille manager whose high-octane tactical style earned him plaudits during his time at Brighton. Ferdinand also floated the name of Thomas Tuchel, who is currently preparing to lead England into the 2026 World Cup. While Tuchel is under contract with the FA, his pedigree as a Champions League winner makes him a perennial favorite for the United hierarchy. Rounding out the trio is Barcelona icon Xavi, who remains a free agent and has previously expressed a deep-seated desire to test his managerial skills in the English Premier League.

Interestingly, Ferdinand did not rule out an internal solution. With U-18 coach and former teammate Darren Fletcher appointed as interim manager for Wednesday’s clash against Burnley, Ferdinand noted that Fletcher could become a permanent candidate “if he does well.” The former England captain revealed that the Manchester United legends’ WhatsApp group has been “popping off” with messages of support for Fletcher, who now faces the monumental task of steadying a ship that has seen ten managers come and go since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013.

The search for Amorim’s successor comes at a critical juncture for United, who are desperate to secure European football for next season. While the board reportedly met last night to finalize the decision to part ways with Amorim, the focus has immediately shifted to whether they will appoint a short-term caretaker or move aggressively for a permanent “Galactico” manager like those suggested by Ferdinand. For now, the “Amorim project” is officially over, and the race for one of the most pressured jobs in global sport is once again wide open.