Barcelona legend Xavi has emerged as a potential candidate to replace Ruben Amorim at Manchester United, according to reports. The speculation comes as pressure mounts on the Portuguese coach following United’s poor start to the season.

The Red Devils have managed just two wins from their opening seven league games, leaving them 14th in the Premier League after a damaging 3-1 defeat to Brentford. Since taking charge last November, Amorim has struggled to generate momentum, collecting only 33 points from 34 league matches and failing to secure back-to-back victories.

A growing section of United supporters are calling for change, with former England midfielder Joe Cole also voicing the opinion that Amorim’s time in charge should end.

United Board Maintain Support for Amorim

Reports suggested that United had already begun preparing a shortlist of potential successors, with names such as Gareth Southgate, Oliver Glasner and Andoni Iraola linked to the role. Xavi, who left Barcelona earlier this year, has now been added to that list of possible replacements.

However, the club hierarchy have insisted that Amorim retains their backing. According to BBC Sport, the board believe he deserves the full season to prove his ability to lead a long-term rebuild at Old Trafford. Suggestions that formal talks have begun with other managers have also been dismissed by senior figures at the club.

Amorim himself struck a calm tone when asked about his future following the defeat at Brentford. “I am never concerned about my job – I am not that kind of guy. It is not my decision. I will do the best I can every minute I am here,” he said.

For now, United’s leadership appear determined to show patience. But with results continuing to disappoint and the team struggling to find consistency, the pressure on Amorim is unlikely to ease. Whether interest in Xavi or other names grows will depend heavily on United’s response in the coming weeks.