Michael Carrick thanks Manchester United fans after sacking: ‘Your love and support meant more than a win’

Michael Carrick has thanked Manchester United supporters for standing by him despite the club’s recent poor results, saying their backing meant “more than just achieving one or two victories”.

Carrick was dismissed by Manchester United before the club appointed Argentine manager Mauricio Pochettino as his replacement. He shared an emotional message on Instagram following his departure.

“It was a huge honour to lead the Manchester United I love,” Carrick wrote. “Very few people get the opportunity to experience and feel this, and for that I am extremely grateful.

“But that honour comes with great responsibility. To be part of Manchester United, you have to fully understand what that responsibility means. This club is different from anywhere else.

“You must always strive to be the best, but there is also a culture, values and standards that have to be followed and respected. They have been built and strengthened over many years.

“It is a unique club, with a great history and a significance that cannot be ignored. That is exactly what inspired me every day.”

Carrick also paid tribute to the club’s supporters, describing them as “an exceptional and rare fanbase”.

“We shared some wonderful times this year and moments that will stay in all our memories,” he said. “The best part of being in this position was seeing so many of you completely immersed in those moments, leaving the stadium desperate to come back for the next one.

“All I wanted was to give something back to you. That love never dies.

“I know we have not achieved the results we wanted recently, but you showed me nothing but love and support at a time when it would have been easier – as most people would do – to turn your backs and walk away.

“That means more to me than just winning one or two matches. That is what makes you who you are, and why I fell in love with this club so many years ago.”

The former manager thanked his coaching staff and the club’s wider workforce, before addressing the players.

“To my coaching team, you gave me everything you had, day after day. I could not have asked for more. I am hugely grateful for your loyalty, hard work and support throughout this period,” he said.

“And to everyone working behind the scenes, thank you for everything you do for this club. Much of your work goes unseen, but it never goes unappreciated.

“To the players, thank you for your efforts and the moments we shared. I wish you all the very best in the future.”

Carrick took temporary charge of Manchester United in January, replacing Ruben Amorim. He led the club to 12 wins in 17 Premier League matches and guided them to Champions League qualification at the end of the 2025-2026 season.

However, Manchester United managed only three victories in 15 matches in all competitions this season. They have not won in the Premier League since 30 August and sit 18th after eight consecutive league games without a victory.

Carrick added that Manchester United would always remain a major part of his life and said he would continue supporting the team from outside the stadium.

Pochettino’s appointment would make him the 12th manager to lead Manchester United since the departure of Alex Ferguson in 2013.