By Editor
Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick after the club plunged into the Premier League relegation zone, with the former midfielder paying the price for a disastrous start to the 2026–27 campaign.
Carrick’s dismissal on Thursday came after United managed just one victory in their opening 10 league matches, leaving the 20-time English champions 18th with only eight points.
The decision brings an abrupt end to Carrick’s permanent tenure at Old Trafford just six months after he was handed a two-year contract.
His position became increasingly untenable following a chaotic 4–4 home draw against Aston Villa on November 8, which left United still searching for consistency and struggling near the foot of the table.
Carrick’s troubles were not confined to the Premier League, as United were also knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Brighton & Hove Albion and have endured a difficult Champions League campaign.
The club have recorded two wins and two defeats in Europe, including a heavy 4–1 loss to Como, further increasing pressure on the manager.
The sack marks a dramatic reversal in Carrick’s fortunes at the club. Appointed interim head coach following Ruben Amorim’s departure in January 2026, Carrick guided United to third place in the Premier League and appeared to have earned a long-term opportunity.
However, his side’s collapse at the beginning of the new season has now brought his spell to an unexpected end.
United’s hierarchy reportedly made the decision after chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox met co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco on Wednesday.
The club have reportedly turned their attention to Mauricio Pochettino, with the former Tottenham and Chelsea manager reportedly having reached a verbal agreement in principle to become United’s next permanent boss.
Pochettino is expected to complete his international commitments with the United States before assuming control at Old Trafford, with United working on a compensation package with the US Soccer Federation.
His first major assignment could be a daunting one, with United scheduled to face fierce rivals Liverpool at Anfield when the Premier League resumes on November 22.
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