United sack Carrick, Pochettino emerges as leading successor

LONDON: Manchester United have parted ways with Michael Carrick as men’s first-team head coach following a disappointing start to the 2026/27 Premier League season, bringing an end to his second spell at Old Trafford.

The club confirmed the departure yesterday, saying they had reached the “extremely difficult conclusion” that a change was necessary to achieve their ambitions after a difficult opening to the campaign.

Carrick, 45, returned to United in January and made an immediate impact, guiding the team to a third-place finish in the Premier League last season. He won 12 of the 17 remaining matches, with United collecting more points than any other side in the competition during that period. His impressive run also secured Champions League qualification and earned him a two-year permanent contract.

However, United have struggled to maintain that momentum this season. They have collected just eight points from their opening 10 league matches and find themselves in the relegation zone. Their record of three wins in 15 matches across all competitions added to the pressure on the former midfielder.

In their statement, United paid tribute to Carrick, describing him as a club legend and praising the standards he maintained during his return.

“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,” the statement said.

The club also said his leadership and achievements last season would always be fondly remembered, while confirming that they intended to appoint a permanent successor as quickly as possible.

Carrick’s final match in charge was Sunday’s eventful 4-4 draw against Aston Villa. He had indicated after the game that he had no intention of walking away from the job.

His departure follows growing speculation about his future during the international break. Tensions had also emerged within the squad, with captain Bruno Fernandes dropped after criticising Carrick’s tactics following a 4-1 defeat against Como. Defender Lisandro Martinez had also questioned the club’s hierarchy over their recruitment.

Former Tottenham, Southampton and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Carrick, although he is currently in charge of the United States national team.