Sir Jim confirms the timing when Amorim could be dismissed by MU

Billionaire Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of Manchester United, stated he intends to allow coach Ruben Amorim three full years to demonstrate his competence, simultaneously dismissing any calls for an early sacking amid the team's difficult phase.

Speaking on The Times' The Business podcast, Ratcliffe affirmed he will maintain his faith in Amorim despite Man Utd’s tough start. When asked if he would grant the Portuguese manager the entire duration of his contract, he replied succinctly: “Yes. Three years, because things can’t be settled overnight.” It is clear that Ratcliffe has strong confidence in Amorim and will only consider dismissal after three years.

Amorim was appointed nearly 11 months ago, following Erik ten Hag’s sacking, after Man Utd finished the season in 15th place — their worst performance in over half a century. Under his leadership, the “Red Devils” currently sit 10th in the Premier League, following a 2-0 victory over Sunderland.

Although results have yet to meet expectations, Ratcliffe believes this is a transitional phase requiring patience: “Ruben hasn’t had his best season yet, but he has great potential. He needs time to prove he is an outstanding coach.”

The British billionaire also criticized the media for pushing immediate success: “Sometimes I don’t understand the press. They think football is just a switch — today’s tough, tomorrow’s brilliant. But a club like Man United can’t be run on sensationalist emotions.”

He cited Alex Ferguson as an example — who was nearly sacked in his first two years but later led the club to great heights. Ratcliffe emphasized: “We must look beyond short-term results. Arteta was also criticized at Arsenal, and now they are title contenders.”

The 72-year-old billionaire stated Amorim’s position will be secured until his contract expires in summer 2027, regardless of public pressure. “I will give him the full three years. There will be no Glazer family demands to sack Amorim. All decisions are discussed transparently,” he said.

Since acquiring 27.7% of shares and taking control of the football operations, Ratcliffe has implemented many strategic changes at Old Trafford, including financial restructuring, cutting operating costs, and aiming to return Man Utd to the group of most profitable clubs worldwide.

He revealed last season’s revenue hit a record high, but there is still much to do: “Costs are too high; the club has become bloated. I’ve been criticized for removing free lunches for staff, but I’ve never had a free lunch myself.”

Ratcliffe also confirmed his priority is to revive the youth academy — a source of pride for Man Utd — and disclosed plans to build a new 100,000-seat stadium next to Old Trafford to boost long-term revenue. He added: “The academy has fallen behind. It needs to be restored to nurture talent and preserve the club’s identity.”

In conclusion, Ratcliffe stressed his vision is not for quick fixes but for building a solid foundation for the future: “I believe in Amorim and the process. Manchester United needs stability, not instant reactions. Three years is enough time to prove we are on the right path.”

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