Summary
- Manchester United have parted ways with manager Michael Carrick following a disastrous start to their Premier League campaign, with former Tottenham and Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino emerging as the leading candidate to take over at Old Trafford.
- The club also praised Carrick’s professionalism and dedication, describing him as a Manchester United legend whose contribution as both a player and manager would be remembered.
- Former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann had also been mentioned among the possible candidates, but Pochettino is increasingly being viewed as the preferred option.
The decision was announced on Thursday, November 12, after United’s disappointing results left them struggling in the relegation zone. The club have collected just eight points from their opening 10 league matches, marking their worst start to a Premier League season.
Carrick, 45, had enjoyed an impressive return to the club last season, guiding United to a third-place finish after replacing Ruben Amorim, whose departure in January created an opportunity for the former midfielder to take charge.
His successful interim spell earned him a permanent two-year contract. However, his second season proved considerably more difficult, with inconsistent performances, recruitment concerns and growing tensions within the squad contributing to the club’s decline.
In an official statement, Manchester United said the decision followed a disappointing beginning to the campaign and reflected the need for a managerial change to meet the club’s ambitions.
The club also praised Carrick’s professionalism and dedication, describing him as a Manchester United legend whose contribution as both a player and manager would be remembered.
Despite the team’s struggles, Carrick had previously insisted he had no intention of walking away from the job. His final match ended in a dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday, but the result failed to convince the club’s leadership to continue with him.
Reports suggest that the decision was finalised following discussions involving co-owner Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox during a meeting in Monaco.
United are now expected to move quickly in their search for a permanent replacement, with Mauricio Pochettino reportedly at the top of their shortlist.
The Argentine manager brings considerable experience of English football, having previously managed Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. He has also coached French giants Paris Saint-Germain.
However, appointing Pochettino could prove complicated because he recently extended his commitment to the United States national team, remaining in charge through the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
Nevertheless, reports have suggested that Manchester United have made significant progress towards securing his services, with discussions reportedly reaching an advanced stage.
Former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann had also been mentioned among the possible candidates, but Pochettino is increasingly being viewed as the preferred option.
Carrick’s dismissal makes him the seventh permanent Manchester United manager to leave the position since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.
The decision has also prompted reactions from former players and supporters. Former United defender Rio Ferdinand paid tribute to Carrick, praising his dignity and professionalism during a difficult period.
Meanwhile, the Manchester United Supporters’ Trust expressed frustration over another managerial departure, arguing that the club’s ownership must accept responsibility for the continued instability.
The supporters’ organisation criticised the Glazer family’s ownership and Ratcliffe’s INEOS leadership, calling for greater accountability and a clearer long-term sporting strategy.
Manchester United now face an important period as they attempt to rescue their season and restore confidence among their supporters.
