Manchester United sack Michael Carrick after poor run of results

Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick as manager, only a few months after appointing him on a contract running until 2029.

The decision follows a sharp decline in results during the current season and comes three days after Carrick led training at the club’s Carrington base. Manchester United have also begun negotiations with Mauricio Pochettino, the current manager of the United States, over replacing the Englishman.

In a statement announcing Carrick’s departure, Manchester United said: “Michael is a Manchester United legend and will always be one. As was the case when he was a player, he showed the utmost dedication and professionalism during his return to the club.”

The club added: “His leadership and achievements during last season will always be appreciated and remembered fondly.”

Carrick initially took charge of Manchester United on a temporary basis in January, succeeding Ruben Amorim. He guided the team to 12 victories in 17 Premier League matches and secured Champions League qualification at the end of the 2025-2026 season.

However, the team’s form has deteriorated significantly this campaign. Manchester United have won only three of their 15 matches in all competitions, a run which has led to Carrick losing his position.

The club have not won a Premier League match since 30 August. Their continued failure to collect points has left them 18th in the table after eight consecutive league games without a victory.

Pochettino leads list of candidates

Pochettino is now the leading candidate to take over at Old Trafford, despite being under contract with the United States until 2030. He renewed that agreement in August.

Manchester United had also been linked with Eddie Howe, Antonio Conte and Julian Nagelsmann. However, the club’s hierarchy has chosen to pursue Pochettino, even though appointing him would reportedly require payment of a release clause worth more than 8m euros.

Carrick’s dismissal adds to the managerial instability at Manchester United since Alex Ferguson left the club in 2013. If Pochettino takes charge, he will become the 12th manager to lead the team during that period.

The club’s hierarchy is continuing its search for a manager capable of returning Manchester United to a challenge for major honours. Several previous appointments have failed to provide the stability the club has sought since the end of Ferguson’s tenure.