“He Got Ten Hag Fired — He’ll Get You Fired Too”: Mourinho’s Blunt Message to United Coach Before Chelsea Game
In a bold statement ahead of Manchester United’s pivotal Premier League match against Chelsea, former manager José Mourinho has strongly advised current head coach Ruben Amorim against starting a specific underperforming player. Mourinho believes this player was a key factor in Erik ten Hag’s dismissal and could similarly jeopardize Amorim’s job.
“He got Ten Hag sacked and he’ll do the same to you,” Mourinho allegedly warned. “He’s a disaster waiting to happen. He ended Ten Hag’s run and he’ll derail yours if you keep playing him. Stick with him and you’ll be out before the season wraps up.”
Ten Hag’s Decline
Erik ten Hag initially found success at United, winning the League Cup in 2023 and the FA Cup in 2024. But a poor start to the 2024–25 season—with just three wins in nine games—left the team languishing in 14th place. A 1-0 loss to West Ham was the final straw, resulting in Ten Hag’s dismissal on October 28, 2024.
Following his exit, Ruud van Nistelrooy served briefly as interim manager before Ruben Amorim officially took over on November 1, 2024.
Mourinho Reflects
Drawing from his own experiences at Old Trafford, Mourinho—who led United to a Europa League and League Cup double between 2016 and 2018—suggested that certain players are destructive influences on the club’s leadership. He noted that Ten Hag was granted more support than he ever received, yet still fell victim to internal issues.
His latest comments imply that Amorim must be cautious when selecting his squad, particularly regarding players who might destabilize team morale and performance.
The Mystery Player
Although Mourinho didn’t mention the player by name, fans and analysts speculate he was referring to someone known for inconsistent performances or causing internal discord. The identity of this “ticking time bomb” remains speculative.
Amorim’s Task
Ruben Amorim has inherited a challenging role, tasked with stabilizing a club struggling for form. Despite a promising 5-2 Carabao Cup win over Leicester under Van Nistelrooy, United’s Premier League campaign is still faltering.
The upcoming showdown with an in-form Chelsea side, led by Enzo Maresca, will be a key test. Maresca acknowledged that United’s managerial switch could spark a positive response from the squad, making them unpredictable opponents.
What Lies Ahead
As the Red Devils prepare to take on Chelsea, all attention will be on Amorim’s choices—particularly whether he heeds Mourinho’s warning. The situation highlights the delicate balance required in squad management and tactical decisions.
For Amorim, success will depend on building unity, enforcing discipline, and making calculated moves that align with the club’s long-term goals. Whether he can bring United back to prominence remains to be seen
