Who is Darren Fletcher, Manchester United’s temporary replacement for Ruben Amorim

Manchester United have parted ways with Ruben Amorim, bringing an end to his 14-month spell as head coach. The club confirmed the news on Monday, saying the decision was made with the team sitting sixth in the table and with the aim of giving United “the best opportunity" for the highest possible Premier League finish. Amorim’s last game was a 1-1 draw against Leeds United on Sunday.

“Ruben Amorim has departed his role as Head Coach of Manchester United. With Manchester United sitting sixth in the Premier League, the club’s leadership has reluctantly made the decision that it is the right time to make a change. This will give the team the best opportunity of the highest possible Premier League finish,” the club announced in a statement.

To lead the team in the meantime, former United midfielder Darren Fletcher has been appointed as interim manager. Fletcher will take charge for Wednesday’s Premier League clash against Burnley and will remain in the role until a permanent successor is named, which is expected to be in the summer after the end of the ongoing 2026-26 season.

More from Football

Why was Ruben Amorim suddenly removed as Manchester United manager? Report reveals potential reason Ruben Amorim sacked as Manchester United manager after just 14 months in charge

Who is Darren Fletcher?

Darren Fletcher is a familiar figure at Old Trafford. He joined United’s academy at the age of 11 and went on to make over 340 appearances for the club during a 20-year career that lasted from 1995 to 2015. Fletcher won five Premier League titles, two League Cups, an FA Cup, and the Champions League with United.

After leaving for West Brom in 2015 and retiring at Stoke City at the age of 34, he returned to the club as an under-16s coach in 2020. He later joined the first-team coaching staff, where he served as technical director for three years. He was later appointed in charge of the under-18 team.

Fletcher will now step in as caretaker manager while United’s owners, Ineos and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, plan to appoint a permanent successor ahead of the 2026-27 season.

Meanwhile, Fletcher and the squad have an opportunity to secure a spot in the Europa League or Conference League, and also the Champions League qualification, on which they missed out on in the previous season. United have not won a Premier League title since 2013.