Former midfielder dismissed after just one league win this season, with Mauricio Pochettino reportedly emerging as leading candidate to replace him
Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick as head coach following a disappointing run of results that has left the club 18th in the Premier League table.
The club confirmed his departure on Thursday, November 12, saying a change was necessary to restore its ambitions after a difficult start to the campaign.
“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,” United said in a statement.
Carrick’s dismissal comes days after United played out a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday, leaving the club with just eight points from 10 league matches.
The Red Devils have managed only one Premier League victory this season and three wins in 15 matches across all competitions.
The 45-year-old initially took charge in January 2026 on an interim basis following the departure of Ruben Amorim. He enjoyed an impressive start, winning 11 of his first 16 matches and guiding United to third place in the Premier League, securing qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
His performance earned him a two-year contract in May, but the team struggled to maintain its form in the new campaign. A prolonged winless run, defensive problems and reported tensions within the dressing room increased pressure on the former midfielder.
United praised Carrick’s dedication and professionalism, describing him as a club legend who would always remain an important part of its history.
The club added that it intends to appoint a permanent successor as soon as possible.
Former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the leading candidate for the position. Reports indicate that Manchester United have reached a verbal agreement in principle with the Argentine, who currently manages the United States men’s national team.
However, the club has yet to officially announce his appointment.
United’s latest managerial change comes amid its continued struggle to recapture the domestic dominance it enjoyed under former manager Sir Alex Ferguson, who guided the club to 13 Premier League titles during his 27-year tenure.
Although the club won major trophies under Jose Mourinho and Louis van Gaal, it has failed to establish sustained success in the years since Ferguson’s departure.
Manchester United now face another rebuilding period, with their next league fixture a high-profile clash against rivals Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.