Man Utd: Sir Jim Ratcliffe made thoughts clear on manager he admires after Ruben Amorim sack

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Following the sacking of Ruben Amorim , Sir Jim Ratcliffe has a massive decision to make. There have been glimpses of encouragement from Manchester United this season, but a run of underwhelming performances and results - coupled with a breakdown in the relationship between manager and owners - has resulted Amorim being relieved of his duties after only 14 months at the helm.

Focus has already shifted to who will replace the 40-year-old. United are unlikely to struggle for interest in the vacancy, but one name Ratcliffe has openly admired in the past could be extremely difficult to lure.

That man is Jurgen Klopp , who famously guided Liverpool to Premier League and Champions League glory. Ratcliffe has spoken glowingly about the German in the past,- suggesting that Klopp would represent something of a dream appointment.

"Klopp has this ability to drive his players to a frenzy," he said back in March 2024, shortly after taking over footballing operations at Old Trafford. "Total commitment on the pitch. And, you know, that's one of the things a good coach can do."

Klopp is now working as Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull , a role he accepted soon after stepping away from Liverpool at the conclusion of the 2023/24 season.

He has made it clear before that his spell at Anfield would be his final job in management. When that stance is combined with the bitter rivalry between Liverpool and United, a switch to Old Trafford looks highly improbable.

As a result, United are expected to pursue alternative and more attainable options. Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is believed to be high on the shortlist, while former England boss Gareth Southgate - another long-time favourite of Ratcliffe - is also under consideration.

Bournemouth head coach Andoni Iraola, Aston Villa's Unai Emery and ex-United defender Laurent Blanc have also been mentioned as possibilities. In the short term, however, U-18s coach Darren Fletcher has been placed in temporary charge until a permanent appointment is made.

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United announced Amorim's exit in a statement released on Monday morning. "Ruben Amorim has departed his role as Head Coach of Manchester United," the statement read.

"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."

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The decision comes after United were held to a 1-1 draw by Leeds at Elland Road on Sunday. In his post-match comments, the 40-year-old alluded to internal issues, stressing that he viewed himself as United's "manager" rather than merely a "coach".

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