Manchester: Manchester United have sacked head coach Ruben Amorim following mounting pressure and his recent criticism of the club’s hierarchy, bringing an abrupt end to a turbulent 14-month spell marked by inconsistent results on and off the pitch.

"With Manchester United sitting sixth in the Premier League, the club's leadership has reluctantly made the decision that it is the right time to make a change," the club said in a statement.

Amorim, 40, departs with a poor record of just 24 wins from 63 matches in charge, leaving him with a win percentage of 38.71 per cent. It is the worst managerial record at United since Frank O’Farrell, who was dismissed in 1971.

The decision comes shortly after United were held to a 1-1 draw by Leeds United at Elland Road, where Matheus Cunha scored the equaliser. Amorim appeared visibly frustrated after the match and raised questions about his position at the club.

“This year I think we are in control of the games more often than last year,” Amorim told TNT Sports. “So it was a good game, but of course (I am) a little bit frustrated not to win.”

While United have lost only two of their last 14 league games, a run that includes six draws has significantly dented their push to keep pace with the top three in the standings.

Amorim’s tenure was further complicated by injury and availability issues. United were without inspirational captain Bruno Fernandes over the festive period, while key attackers Bryan Mbeumo and Amad Diallo were away on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations. Mason Mount and Kobbie Mainoo have also been sidelined with injuries.