Manchester United’s season is turning into a penalty shootout of problems, and the boardroom drama is proving just as gripping as anything on the pitch.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has reportedly made a surprise approach to former England boss Gareth Southgate, sparking fresh uncertainty over Ruben Amorim’s future at Old Trafford.
Southgate’s name first popped up back in February 2024 when Ratcliffe became co-owner, and it’s now back on the radar after Erik ten Hag’s exit and Amorim’s rocky start.
The 55-year-old has been out of work since stepping down after Euro 2024, but timing could be key. United are said to be unwilling to sack Amorim before November 1, when his compensation package would shrink.
Until then, Amorim remains in the dugout, but the clock is clearly ticking.
Ratcliffe’s silent whistle at Man Utd
According to talkSPORT, Ratcliffe has held direct talks with Southgate in recent weeks. The former England coach turned down club management last year, but with United’s struggles growing, a new offer could prove too tempting.
Other names, like Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner and Bournemouth’s Andoni Iraola, are also being quietly linked if the board decides to call full-time on Amorim’s reign.
The numbers are brutal. Amorim has collected only 33 points from 34 Premier League games and has never managed back-to-back wins.
United have conceded the opening goal in 21 of those matches—a stat that will make any Red Devils fan feel offside.
A 3-1 defeat to Brentford last weekend left the club 13th in the table and supporters wondering if this season is already a write-off.
For now, Amorim insists he won’t demand a payoff if shown the door, but reports claim an early dismissal could still cost United around £12 million. That might explain the patient game from the hierarchy, even as fans grow restless.
Southgate, meanwhile, remains available and waiting, like a striker lurking in the box for a late winner. Whether Ratcliffe makes the final pass is the question keeping Old Trafford on edge.
Ruben Amorim Man Utd stats so far
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Games | 33 |
| Wins | 9 |
| Draws | 7 |
| Losses | 17 |
