Manchester United have parted ways with Michael Carrick following a disappointing run of results that has left the Premier League giants languishing in 18th position after 10 league matches, with just eight points.
Carrick’s dismissal, announced on Thursday, November 12, marks a dramatic turnaround for the former United midfielder, who was initially appointed as interim manager before earning a permanent contract after an impressive spell in charge.
Across his 32 matches at the helm, Carrick recorded 15 victories, eight draws and nine defeats, giving him an overall win rate of approximately 46.9 per cent.
His first spell at Old Trafford was particularly encouraging. In his opening 17 matches as interim manager, he secured 12 victories, three draws and just two defeats. His impressive performances helped Manchester United finish third in the Premier League last season and secure Champions League qualification.
However, his fortunes changed dramatically following his permanent appointment.
United have struggled throughout the 2026/27 campaign, managing just three victories in their first 15 matches in all competitions. Their poor league form has been particularly concerning, with only one victory, five draws and four defeats from their opening 10 Premier League fixtures.
The disappointing results, coupled with growing pressure from supporters, ultimately brought Carrick’s tenure to an end.
His final match was a dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa, in which United fought back from a two-goal deficit twice to rescue a point. Despite the late comeback, the result was not enough to convince the club’s hierarchy that Carrick could turn the situation around.
Attention has now shifted to Mauricio Pochettino, with Manchester United reportedly prepared to pay around $10 million to secure the Argentine’s release from his contract as head coach of the United States men’s national team.
Pochettino, 54, has considerable Premier League experience, having previously managed Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. His most memorable achievement in England came at Tottenham, where he guided the club to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final.
Known for his high-intensity football, pressing tactics and ability to develop young players, Pochettino is viewed as a potential candidate to restore Manchester United’s identity and competitive edge.
His reported release clause of approximately $10 million could prove an important factor in negotiations, although his appointment has yet to be officially confirmed.
Manchester United are desperate to arrest their decline and avoid the embarrassment of a relegation battle. Bringing in a manager with Pochettino’s experience could represent a significant step towards stabilising the club.
Carrick’s departure once again highlights the enormous pressure that comes with managing Manchester United, where expectations remain exceptionally high despite years of inconsistency since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement.
For Carrick, what began as a promising opportunity to lead the club he represented with distinction has ended in disappointment. For Pochettino, should the move materialise, the challenge will be to turn a struggling Manchester United side back into genuine contenders.
