Zinedine Zidane’s Two Key Demands Revealed as Manchester United Sack Ruben Amorim
Manchester United have parted ways with head coach Ruben Amorim after just 14 months in charge, following a turbulent period culminating in a public fallout with the club’s hierarchy.
The decision came on January 5, 2026, less than 24 hours after a 1-1 draw against Leeds United on January 4. In his post-match press conference, Amorim launched an explosive rant, insisting he was hired as the “manager” with full authority rather than merely a “head coach.” He criticised the recruitment department, urging them to “do their job,” amid frustrations over a lack of support in the January transfer window and his rigid adherence to a 3-4-3 formation.
United’s official statement read: “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 would like to thank Ruben for his contribution and wishes him well for the future.”
Sources indicate the sacking stemmed from a breakdown in relations, particularly with director of football Jason Wilcox, over transfer policy and tactical inflexibility. Former midfielder Darren Fletcher has been appointed interim boss, starting with upcoming fixtures against Burnley and Brighton.
Amorim, who arrived from Sporting CP in November 2024, led United to a Europa League final in May 2025 but struggled for consistency, with the team enduring poor results and failing to break into the top four.
As the search for a permanent successor begins, speculation has immediately turned to Zinedine Zidane, the three-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid, who has been out of management since 2021.
However, Zidane’s former France teammate Emmanuel Petit has previously outlined two strict demands the legendary coach would require before considering the Old Trafford role.
First, Zidane would need firm guarantees on squad quality and improvements. Petit emphasised that Zidane is “very conscious and very careful” about player standards, doubting the current team’s level and stating he would only join if assured of “solutions” through significant personnel upgrades.
Second, a stable and positive club environment is essential. Petit noted that “the environment at Manchester United for years has not been good,” implying Zidane would demand structural support and harmony within the club.
Additionally, Zidane has personally highlighted his limited English proficiency as a potential barrier to managing in the Premier League, stating: “I understand English, but I don’t fully master it.” He has stressed the importance of fluent communication for his managerial approach.
Widely tipped to succeed Didier Deschamps as France national team coach after the 2026 World Cup, Zidane remains a long shot for United. Current betting odds place him at around 10/1, behind favourites such as Oliver Glasner and Gareth Southgate.
While Zidane’s name adds glamour to the speculation, the revived links appear largely opportunistic amid United’s latest managerial crisis, with no indications of active negotiations.
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