Amorim Humiliated as Paddy Power Enlists Ex-Boss to Taunt Man Utd, Ratcliffe & Struggling Manager
Paddy Power Mocks Manchester United’s Struggles With Humorous Alan Curbishley Clip
Ruben Amorim’s turbulent start at Manchester United has sparked ridicule from bookmakers Paddy Power, who enlisted ex-Premier League boss Alan Curbishley for a satirical take on the crisis.
Manchester United’s dismal season hit a new low after a 3-0 defeat to rivals Manchester City in Sunday’s derby, intensifying scrutiny on under-fire manager Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese coach, appointed in November 2024, has managed just one Premier League win in four matches this campaign and suffered an embarrassing Carabao Cup exit to League Two side Grimsby Town. With only 31 points from 31 league games, pressure is mounting on Amorim to turn the tide.
Paddy Power capitalized on the chaos, releasing a tongue-in-cheek video suggesting the club should hire 67-year-old Alan Curbishley—out of management since 2008—to rescue them. The clip begins with Curbishley pleading for a managerial comeback: “Management, I could still do a job… All I’m asking for is one club to give me a chance.” Moments later, his phone rings with a call from United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe—only for Curbishley to ignore it, toss his phone into a bin, and declare, “Linda, can we get me a new number?”
Curbishley’s fictional refusal to answer Ratcliffe’s call humorously underscores the perceived toxicity of the United job.
Curbishley’s Legacy vs. United’s Chaos
The former Charlton and West Ham manager once earned plaudits for guiding Charlton to two Premier League promotions and stabilizing them in the top flight. However, his last role ended in 2008, and the video jests at his lengthy hiatus. While Curbishley’s cameo is lighthearted, it reflects broader concerns about United’s direction under Amorim.
The club’s £236 million summer spending spree—including marquee signings like Jude Bellingham—has failed to deliver results. Fans are disillusioned after last season’s 15th-place league finish and Europa League final loss to Tottenham, which denied European football this term.
Ratcliffe’s visible frustration post-derby hints at brewing upheaval at Old Trafford.
Amorim’s Uncertain Future
Amorim, once hailed for his tactical acumen at Sporting Lisbon, now faces criticism for United’s defensive frailties and lack of identity. His predecessor, Erik ten Hag, was dismissed after a similar spiral, and history seems to be repeating. Paddy Power’s stunt underscores the growing skepticism around whether any manager can thrive in United’s high-pressure environment.
With fixtures against Chelsea and Liverpool looming, Amorim’s tenure hangs in the balance. As the club’s hierarchy weighs its options, the joke resonates: even a retired manager might think twice before stepping into the chaos.
Featured images via Paddy Power’s social media and Getty Images.
