'He hasn’t earned the right' - Wayne Rooney blasts Ruben Amorim

Manchester United’s decision to sack Ruben Amorim following a dismal run of results has been met with a blunt and damning assessment from club legend Wayne Rooney.

Amorim was relieved of his duties on Monday after 14 months in charge, with United stuck in mid-table and fan frustration boiling over following a disappointing 1-1 draw against Leeds United.

The Portuguese coach, appointed in November 2024 after his success at Sporting CP, failed to replicate that form in England.

Hours before the sacking was confirmed, Rooney did not hold back while speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show podcast, questioning Amorim’s authority and public comments.

“He is not Pep Guardiola. He’s not Jürgen Klopp,” Rooney said.

He added, “He hasn’t got that history or background, so I don’t think he should be speaking with all authority.”

Rooney stressed that managing a club of Manchester United’s stature requires pedigree and proven success.

“You need to earn the right to dictate exactly what happens in a football club, especially at Man United. If Guardiola comes in, nobody questions what players he wants or the system he uses,” he added.

The former United captain also addressed Amorim’s controversial post-match reference to having 18 months left on his contract.

“Well, I don’t think he’ll have 18 more months if it carries on,” Rooney said bluntly.

Rooney concluded by admitting he was confused by Amorim’s messaging and leadership approach.

“The words he is saying are very confusing to me. He hasn’t got that background or history,” he said.