Man Utd told to target Champions League after Ruben Amorim exit

Manchester United players were told that Champions League qualification is the target for the rest of the season after Ruben Amorim left; interim staff will lead the team while a permanent manager is sought.

Manchester United have told the squad that Champions League qualification is the target for the remainder of the season following Ruben Amorim's departure. Amorim left Old Trafford after 14 months in charge after a 1-1 draw with Leeds last weekend. Darren Fletcher took interim charge for the midweek 2-2 draw with Burnley and will oversee the FA Cup third-round tie with Brighton. The club plans to appoint a permanent manager at the end of the season while interim options lead the team. Key facts: - Director of football Jason Wilcox spoke with the first team and set Champions League qualification as the season target, according to a source close to the club. - Ruben Amorim departed after 14 months in charge, with his exit coming after the 1-1 draw with Leeds. - Darren Fletcher managed the side for the 2-2 draw with Burnley; Michael Carrick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer are also reported to be in contention to oversee the team until season's end. - United sit joint-sixth with 32 points, one point behind fifth-placed Brentford, after the draw with Burnley. - Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo had limited minutes under Amorim; his expected January move, reportedly of interest to Napoli, has been complicated by the managerial change, according to a source. Summary: The club has communicated a clear short-term objective of returning to the Champions League and has asked players to rally after the managerial change. Interim coaches will lead upcoming fixtures, including the FA Cup tie with Brighton and the league match against Manchester City next weekend. A permanent managerial appointment is planned for the end of the season.