Pep Guardiola has offered a calm but telling assessment of Ruben Amorim following Manchester United’s decision to part ways with the Portuguese coach, describing him as a top manager in the aftermath of the Old Trafford shake-up. Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s Premier League clash with Brighton, the City boss chose his words carefully, showing sympathy without crossing lines.
The dismissal came just a day after United’s 1-1 draw with Leeds, a match that was followed by a tense post-game message from Amorim, where he firmly stated his authority as manager rather than head coach, as reported by SoftFootball.
Guardiola made it clear that while he respects Amorim, the final call belonged solely to United. Explaining the limits of his position as a rival manager in a post shared by Fabrizio Romano on his official X account.
Fabrizio Romano posted:
Pep Guardiola: Rúben Amorim is a top manager. The decision has been made by our neighbours… so I wish him – Ruben – all the best in the future.
His comment subtly reflected the harsh reality of modern football, where patience is thin and results often outweigh process. The City boss also referenced similar situations elsewhere, including Chelsea’s recent decision to part ways with Enzo Maresca, another case highlighted by SoftFootball.
Amorim’s exit ends a 14-month spell that was not without promise. He guided United to the UEFA Europa League final in May 2025 and had them sitting sixth in the Premier League, just three points off the top four.
However, United also found themselves 17 points behind league leaders Arsenal, a gap the board felt was too large. Guardiola pointed to fine margins, noting how dropped points at home against Everton, Bournemouth, and Wolves proved costly.
In his words:
They could have been close to Arsenal.
The City manager also touched on external factors, including injuries and the Africa Cup of Nations.
He added:
The gaps are so small… it’s difficult with players not available.
It was a quiet defence of Amorim’s project, one built under pressure and constant scrutiny. In the immediate aftermath, United confirmed Darren Fletcher as interim manager, starting with the Burnley fixture, while plans for a caretaker before the January 17 Manchester derby are underway.
Names like Oliver Glasner and Thomas Tuchel are already being discussed. Still, Guardiola’s words linger, reinforcing the sense that Amorim’s time ended not due to a lack of quality, but timing, tension, and football’s unforgiving nature.
