Amorim’s authority at Manchester United questioned after tense Leeds draw

January 5, 2026 Oliver Obel

Manchester United’s on-field frustrations at Elland Road have been overshadowed by growing uncertainty around Ruben Amorim’s authority and long-term position, following a pointed public intervention by the Portuguese coach and a subsequent report questioning his standing at the club.

According to talkSPORT, Amorim’s future at Old Trafford is now viewed internally as uncertain after tensions surfaced between the head coach and United’s senior hierarchy in the aftermath of Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Leeds United.

The match itself offered little resolution to United’s recent struggles. Leeds took the lead in the 62nd minute through Brenden Aaronson before Matheus Cunha responded almost immediately, restoring parity three minutes later. The result extended United’s run of draws and fuelled further debate among supporters over Amorim’s selections and tactical approach.

Those discussions intensified after Amorim’s post-match press conference, which he cut short following remarks that appeared to underline dissatisfaction with his remit at the club.

“I came here to be the manager of Manchester United, not to be the head coach,” Amorim said.
“I know my name is not [Antonio] Conte, [Thomas] Tuchel, or [Jose] Mourinho but I’m the manager of Manchester United.”

He went on to suggest that the current arrangement could define the remainder of his time at the club, while stressing that he would not resign.

“It’s going to be like this for 18 months or until the board decide to change. I’m not going to quit,” he said.
“I’ll do my job until another guy is coming here to replace me.”

talkSPORT reports that Amorim’s comments followed internal pressure from football leadership, including director of football Jason Wilcox, for greater tactical flexibility. The report adds that chief executive Omar Berrada is expected to support Wilcox should the disagreement develop into a broader power struggle.

The same report suggests Amorim is frustrated by what he perceives as broken assurances regarding squad reinforcement during the current transfer window. United are now expected to adopt a cautious approach in the market, with hesitation at board level linked to reservations about the direction under the current coaching staff.

Questions have also reportedly been raised over Amorim’s handling of midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who has found himself sidelined this season. talkSPORT says the board is reluctant to approve any transfer involving the player, further highlighting internal uncertainty over key sporting decisions.

While United’s immediate focus remains on improving results, the situation has underlined broader tensions over control, recruitment, and the balance of power behind the scenes issues that could prove decisive in shaping Amorim’s future at the club.

Sources: talkSPORT