Manchester United interim manager Darren Fletcher has described his appointment as an opportunity beyond his “wildest dreams,” while stressing that he has not considered the prospect of taking the job on a permanent basis following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim.
The Portuguese coach was sacked after a difficult 14-month spell at Old Trafford, with former United midfielder Fletcher stepping in on an interim basis. Speaking to the media ahead of United’s clash with Burnley, the under-18s coach reflected on the unexpected turn of events.
“It’s surreal,” Fletcher said. “To be given the chance to lead a Manchester United team is an incredible honour. I never imagined, even in my wildest dreams, that this could happen—especially when I was still playing for the club.”
While admitting that the circumstances surrounding his appointment were not ideal, Fletcher said his attention is fully on the task at hand. “It hasn’t happened the way I would have expected, and that doesn’t sit entirely comfortably with me, but I have a responsibility now. My focus is on leading the team and taking pride in doing so.”
Fletcher is expected to remain in charge until the club appoints a caretaker manager, with a permanent replacement for Amorim likely to be named at the end of the season. Reports suggest United have held preliminary talks with Fletcher, Michael Carrick and former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer regarding the caretaker role.
However, Fletcher insisted discussions with club officials have been limited to immediate matters. “I genuinely haven’t thought about it,” he said when asked about staying on permanently. “Everything has moved so quickly. All my energy and attention are on the Burnley game.”
The former Scotland international, who won five Premier League titles under Sir Alex Ferguson, acknowledged the high expectations that come with the role.
“At Manchester United, the expectation is always to be competing at the top and winning trophies. That’s the standard we all have to strive for,” he said.
On his vision for the team, Fletcher said he wants performances that reflect the club’s identity. “I want a team the fans can be proud of and one I can be proud of. I trust the players—we have quality and commitment. My job is to give them the confidence and freedom to express themselves.”
Fletcher added that he is hopeful captain Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount could return to the squad, which has been affected by injuries and international duties. He declined to confirm whether his twin sons, Jack and Tyler, would make their full debuts against Burnley.
Manchester United are currently sixth in the Premier League, three points adrift of fourth-placed Liverpool.