“He Got Erik Ten Hag Sacked—He’ll Get You Sacked Too”: Mourinho’s Explosive Warning to Manchester United’s Coach Before Chelsea Clash
In a dramatic turn of events, former Manchester United manager José Mourinho has issued a stark warning to the club’s current head coach, Ruben Amorim, ahead of their crucial Premier League fixture against Chelsea. Mourinho’s caution centers around the decision to start a particular underperforming player, whom he believes was instrumental in the downfall of previous manager Erik ten Hag.
“He got Erik Ten Hag sacked and he’ll get you sacked as well,” Mourinho reportedly stated. “He’s a ticking time bomb waiting to explode anytime soon. He ruined Ten Hag’s career and he would ruin yours too. Keep starting him and you would find yourself out before the season ends.”
The Fallout from Ten Hag’s Tenure
Erik ten Hag’s tenure at Manchester United began with promise, securing the League Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024. However, the 2024–25 season saw a significant decline in performance. The team managed only three wins in their first nine league matches, leaving them in 14th place on the Premier League table. This poor run culminated in a 1-0 defeat to West Ham United, after which Ten Hag was dismissed on October 28, 2024 .
Following Ten Hag’s departure, Ruud van Nistelrooy took over as interim manager before Ruben Amorim was appointed as the permanent head coach on November 1, 2024 .
Mourinho’s Perspective
Mourinho’s warning is rooted in his own experiences at Manchester United. During his tenure from 2016 to 2018, he secured a Europa League and League Cup double but was dismissed following a series of disappointing results. Reflecting on his time, Mourinho remarked that the club showed more faith and trust in Ten Hag than they did in him .
His recent comments suggest a belief that certain players within the squad have a detrimental impact on managerial tenures, implying that Amorim should be cautious in his team selections to avoid a similar fate.
The Player in Question
While Mourinho did not explicitly name the player he referred to, speculation points towards individuals who have underperformed or caused unrest within the squad. The identity of this “ticking time bomb” remains a topic of debate among fans and pundits alike.
Amorim’s Challenge
Ruben Amorim faces the daunting task of revitalizing a Manchester United side that has struggled for consistency. Despite a morale-boosting 5-2 victory over Leicester in the Carabao Cup under Van Nistelrooy’s interim management, the team remains under pressure to perform in the league .
Amorim’s upcoming match against Chelsea is critical. The Blues, under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, are in fine form and will pose a significant challenge. Maresca has acknowledged that United’s managerial change could make them a tougher opponent, noting that such transitions often lead to a positive reaction from players .
The Road Ahead
As Manchester United prepares to face Chelsea, all eyes will be on Amorim’s team selection and tactical approach. Mourinho’s warning serves as a reminder of the delicate balance managers must maintain in handling player dynamics and performance expectations.
For Amorim, the challenge is clear: instill discipline, foster unity, and make strategic decisions that prioritize the team’s success. Only time will tell if he can navigate these complexities and steer Manchester United back to its former glory.