Ruben Amorim is poised to lose nearly half of his severance package after being sacked by Manchester United. The former Sporting boss was relieved of his duties on Monday morning, less than 24 hours after lashing out at United’s top brass in an explosive press conference. After the draw at Leeds United on Sunday afternoon, he appeared to challenge those above him to let him do his job without interference.
Those comments didn’t go down well at Old Trafford and Amorim was made to pay the price by losing his job. Because there was no break clause in the contract he signed two years ago, the Red Devils will be forced to pay out his contract in full. As a result, the 40-year-old is expected to receive just over £10million.
He won’t be able to keep all of that money, though, with nearly half set to be taken by the taxman. According to OLBG, it would be subject to the additional tax rate in the UK, although the Portuguese boss would not have to pay National Insurance.
That is because termination payments are generally exempt from National Insurance contributions, but United will have had to pay an additional £1.5m as part of their own contributions as his employer.
It will leave Amorim with just over £5.5m of his settlement to take home, with the UK purse bringing in more than £6m across tax deductions and United’s contribution as his employer.
United confirmed Amorim’s sacking with a brief statement, which read: “Ruben Amorim has departed his role as head coach of Manchester United. Ruben was appointed in November 2024 and led the team to a UEFA Europa League Final in Bilbao in May.
“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 to the club and wishes him well for the future. Darren Fletcher will take charge of the team against Burnley on Wednesday.”
According to The Athletic, a ‘breakdown in relations’ with the likes of Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox was the main reason for Amorim’s dismissal.
United are now looking for a new permanent boss, but it’s been reported that an appointment is unlikely to be made until the end of the season.
Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is said to have emerged as a top candidate, with the likes of Kieran McKenna, Enzo Maresca and Julian Nagelsmann also potentially in the frame.