Manchester United part company with head coach Michael Carrick

Michael Carrick’s time as Manchester United head coach is over after the club confirmed his departure on Thursday afternoon.

The former England midfielder had faced sustained pressure since being appointed on a permanent basis this season. Carrick had previously taken temporary charge of the team and led United to a third-place finish in the Premier League.

However, United’s poor beginning to the new campaign has left them in the relegation zone. They are 18th in the table after 10 matches, with eight points and only one victory.

Former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly being considered as Carrick’s replacement. He is expected to take charge before United’s Premier League meeting with Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.

Pochettino is set to leave his role as head coach of the United States national team to move to Old Trafford.

Manchester United confirmed Carrick’s exit in an official statement, while highlighting his achievements during his return to the club.

“Manchester United can confirm that Michael Carrick has departed his role as men’s first-team head coach.

“Michael rejoined the club in January and guided the team to a third-placed Premier League finish by winning 12 out of the remaining 17 games of the 2025/26 season, accumulating the highest points tally in the league during that period.

“After a disappointing start to the season, the club has come to the extremely difficult conclusion that a change is necessary in order to achieve our ambitions.

“Michael is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend. Just as he did as a player, he has conducted himself with the highest standards of dedication and professionalism throughout his time back with the club. His leadership and achievements last season will always be fondly remembered.

“The club intends to appoint a permanent successor as quickly as possible.”

Carrick returned to Manchester United in January and oversaw a strong conclusion to the 2025/26 season. His side won 12 of their final 17 league matches and finished third, collecting more points than any other team during that period.

That progress was followed by a difficult start to the current Premier League campaign, with the club’s single victory from their opening 10 matches leaving them 18th in the standings.

The change in the dugout comes before United’s trip to face Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, with Pochettino reportedly in line to succeed Carrick after leaving his position with the United States national team.