In a dramatic turn of events, Manchester United have parted ways with manager Ruben Amorim after just 14 months in charge. The club confirmed the Portuguese coach's departure on Monday, with former midfielder Darren Fletcher stepping in as interim manager for the crucial Premier League clash against Burnley this Wednesday.
Ferdinand's Unexpected Yet Predictable Reaction
Former Manchester United defender and club legend Rio Ferdinand admitted the news took him by surprise when he woke up, but upon reflection, he was not shocked by the decision. Speaking candidly on his YouTube channel, Ferdinand provided a unique insider's perspective on the unfolding drama at Old Trafford.
"I didn't anticipate this when I woke up this morning that Ruben Amorim would be one of the guys that would be getting the sack," Ferdinand stated. "When you look at his record in black and white, I'm not surprised, which is weird, and it sounds weird when I say that."
The 'Coldness' That Hinted at Trouble
Ferdinand revealed a telling personal encounter with Amorim just days before the sacking, which in hindsight, signaled deep-rooted issues. He described a significant shift in the manager's demeanour compared to their previous interactions.
"When I went there the last time, I noticed immediately that there was a coldness about him," Ferdinand recalled. "There was a real difference to what I'd seen before. He was just really a very different human being."
Connecting the dots, Ferdinand believes the problems had been simmering for months. "Now looking back with hindsight, this has been cooking since before Christmas, 100%," he asserted, suggesting the club's decision was the culmination of a prolonged period of instability.
Backing for Interim Boss Darren Fletcher
With Amorim's exit, the responsibility now falls on Darren Fletcher, who has been managing the club's Under-18s side. Ferdinand expressed strong support for his former teammate's interim appointment and highlighted the qualities Fletcher brings to the role.
"I'm really excited to see him," Ferdinand said, mentioning that the Manchester United ex-players' WhatsApp group was buzzing with congratulations for 'Fletch'. He praised Fletcher's character, noting his resilience through big career moments and personal health battles.
"One thing we will do is he'll take counsel. He'll lean on people. I'm sure one of his first phone calls will be Sir Alex Ferguson – followed by myself," Ferdinand joked. "He's got humility."
Ferdinand also issued a challenge to the interim manager, hoping his performance would complicate the board's search for a permanent successor. "If I was a betting man, I'd say he'll do a good enough job. I want him to make it difficult for the hierarchy to make a decision on the next manager," he said, emphasising that this is the key question on every fan's mind.
The swift change in leadership marks another turbulent chapter for Manchester United, as the club seeks immediate stability under Fletcher before embarking on yet another search for a long-term managerial solution.
