UNPHASED? Ruben Amorim beams alongside wife in first appearance following Man Utd dismissal as shortlist of five potential successors takes shape

The 40-year-old tactician was spotted departing his Cheshire residence with his spouse, Maria, only a few hours after being relieved of his duties.

Ruben Amorim flashed a smile during his first public outing since losing his job as Manchester United boss

His wife, Maria, also appeared in high spirits

The couple were photographed leaving their property

Amorim, sporting shades and a navy coat, grinned for photographers, while Maria opted for an all-white ensemble topped with a brown hat and sweater to brave the winter chill.

The Portuguese coach's tenure lasted a mere 14 months, ending abruptly due to escalating friction with the Old Trafford hierarchy.

His departure was finalized less than a day after a defiant press conference outburst regarding his authority at the club.

He had stated: "I joined this club to function as the manager of Manchester United, not simply a coach.

"Let me be clear. I realize I don't carry the same weight as Tuchel, Mourinho, or Conte, but I am the one in charge.

"Things will proceed this way for the next 18 months, or until the directors opt for a change.

"I have no intention of resigning; I will fulfill my responsibilities until a successor is brought in to take my place."

Darren Fletcher has been named caretaker manager for United's upcoming clash at Burnley this Wednesday, as the hunt for Amorim's permanent replacement commences.

Enzo Maresca—who recently resigned from Chelsea—and Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner have emerged as the primary candidates.

Other high-profile names being linked include Barcelona icon Xavi, former Three Lions manager Sir Gareth Southgate, and Mauricio Pochettino.

Under Amorim's guidance, United climbed from the lower reaches of the standings to their current sixth-place position in the Premier League.

However, internal conflicts reached a point of no return, leading to a concise official statement confirming his exit.

The announcement said: "Ruben Amorim has stepped down from his position as Head Coach of Manchester United.

"Ruben joined us in November 2024 and guided the squad to the UEFA Europa League Final in Bilbao last May.

"With the club currently positioned sixth in the Premier League, the board has reluctantly concluded that a leadership change is necessary.

"This move is intended to provide the squad with the best chance of finishing as high as possible in the table.

"The organization expresses its gratitude to Ruben for his efforts and offers him best wishes for his next chapter.

"Darren Fletcher will oversee the team for the Burnley fixture on Wednesday."

Statistically, Amorim leaves as the least successful United boss of the Premier League period, posting a win rate of only 31.9 per cent.