In a moment that has sent shockwaves through the football world, former Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho has wasted no time in reacting to the sacking of Ruben Amorim. The young Argentine, now thriving at Chelsea, quickly “liked” an Instagram post announcing the Portuguese manager’s departure from Old Trafford – a move widely interpreted as a subtle yet stinging dig at his old boss.

The drama stems from a bitterly fractured relationship that developed during Amorim’s 14-month tenure at United. Appointed in November 2024 with high hopes after his success at Sporting CP, Amorim arrived promising a tactical revolution. However, his rigid adherence to a 3-4-3 formation and uncompromising approach to discipline quickly alienated several key players, including Garnacho.

Tensions escalated early on when Garnacho was dropped for crucial matches, including the Manchester derby in December 2024 alongside Marcus Rashford. The breaking point came after the 2025 Europa League final, a 1-0 defeat to Tottenham. Garnacho, frustrated at being limited to just 20 minutes despite his contributions throughout the competition, publicly voiced his discontent: “Up until the final I played every round helping the team, and today I play 20 minutes, I don’t know.”

Amorim responded forcefully, reportedly telling Garnacho in front of teammates to hope he had a good agent for the summer transfer window. The winger was subsequently frozen out, placed in the infamous “bomb squad” with players like Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Antony. By summer 2025, Garnacho secured a £40 million move to Chelsea, where he has since expressed no regrets, stating it was the “right moment and the right club” to advance his career.

Amorim’s reign ended abruptly on January 5, 2026, following a string of poor results and internal conflicts. United finished a disappointing 15th in the previous Premier League season – their lowest ever – and started the current campaign sluggishly, sitting sixth with only one win in their last five games. His stubborn tactical inflexibility drew criticism, as did public spats with the club’s hierarchy over transfers and his self-description as “manager” rather than “head coach.”

The club’s statement confirmed Amorim’s departure, thanking him for leading the team to the Europa League final but noting the need for change to push for a higher league finish. Darren Fletcher has taken interim charge, with speculation mounting over a permanent replacement.

Garnacho’s swift social media reaction – liking Fabrizio Romano’s post breaking the news – has fueled speculation of lingering resentment. Fans have branded it a “petty” yet satisfying act of revenge, highlighting the personal fallout from Amorim’s strict regime. While some players posted emotional farewells, Garnacho’s silence except for that one like speaks volumes.

This episode underscores the volatile nature of modern football management at elite clubs like United, where clashing egos and high stakes can turn promising eras into chaotic ones overnight. As Garnacho flourishes elsewhere, Amorim’s exit marks another turbulent chapter in United’s post-Ferguson struggles.