Darren Fletcher for now - but who will be the next permanent manager of Man United?

It marks a messy end to what has been a messy tenure. United never got going under the Portuguese, who had arrived with a big reputation following his work at Sporting Lisbon.

He departs with the club sitting sixth, though still lightyears away from challenging the Premier League elite for title supremacy. Darren Fletcher, who won trophies aplenty while strutting his stuff under Sir Alex Ferguson, will take charge on an interim basis.

The Scot's first game will be on Wednesday, where United will travel to face Burnley at Turf Moor.

However, Fletcher isn't expected to be in the job for the long haul. United may end up waiting until the summer to appoint a permanent replacement, with several names in the frame.

GB News now takes a look at the candidates who may end up being given the keys to Old Trafford in the wake of Amorim's bombshell exit.

Xavi Hernandez

Xavi Hernandez is out of work and available, having last managed Barcelona.

Foreign outlets have suggested the Spaniard is determined to manage United, having resisted other opportunities since his departure from the Nou Camp.

Xavi did well enough at Barcelona, winning LaLiga in 2023. Omar Berrada is a huge admirer, though whether the club take the punt remains to be seen.

Oliver Glasner

Oliver Glasner has turned Crystal Palace into one of the most-efficent teams in the Premier League.

He has worked wonders at Selhurst Park and, having won trophies such as the FA Cup and Community Shield, is expected to leave come the end of the season.

Ever since appointing David Moyes in 2023, United have opted against raiding Premier League rivals. Whether that stance changes in 2026 remains to be seen.

Unai Emery

Unai Emery would be a dream pick for many United fans.

He has completely transformed Aston Villa since his appointment in October 2022 and is widely considered one of the best managers in the world.

However, while Emery would be an obvious pick, Villa wouldn't let him go without a fight. And, with the team flying, would he really risk leaving for Old Trafford, where so many managers get eaten live?

Gareth Southgate

Like Xavi, Gareth Southgate is another manager on the market.

He was of interest to United as a player and, two decades on, is likely to be linked with the position at some point.

Southgate would be a controversial pick given how he failed to win anything with England. He would, however, offer a safe pair of hands as the Red Devils continue to seek the glory days of old.

Who else could be considered?

Kieran McKenna: Previously worked at United as a coach to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and is currently manager of Ipswich Town. It would be a huge step up but a blockbuster return can't entirely be ruled out.

Michael Carrick: A United legend who has done well enough in his managerial career, Michael Carrick is likely to come under consideration. However, having only worked in the Championship, he could be too out of his depth.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer: The Norwegian previously guided United to second and third-placed Premier League finishes before leaving in November 2021. There is a sense, however, that he would have performed even better if he'd enjoyed more backing - and not been saddled with the controversial return of Cristiano Ronaldo.