Manchester United End Carrick’s Tenure Amid Relegation Pressure and Pochettino Links
Manchester United have sacked head coach Michael Carrick after a disappointing start to the 2026/27 Premier League season left the club in the relegation zone.
The club confirmed Carrick’s departure in a statement on Thursday, November 12, bringing an end to his second spell at Old Trafford less than six months after he signed a permanent contract.
United have managed just one win from their opening 10 league matches and sit 18th in the table with eight points. Their latest setback was a 4-4 home draw against Aston Villa, while they have recorded only three victories in 15 matches across all competitions this season.
The club said it had reached an “extremely difficult conclusion” that a change was necessary to meet its ambitions.
Manchester United’s statement on Michael Carrick
In its announcement, Manchester United praised Carrick’s professionalism and acknowledged his contribution during the second half of last season.
The club said:
“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’s rise and sudden departure
Carrick initially returned to Manchester United in January 2026 as interim head coach, taking charge while the club was struggling in the Premier League.
His impact was immediate. United won 12, drew three and lost two of their remaining 17 league matches, finishing third and securing qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
That revival earned him a permanent appointment and a new contract in May. However, the club’s form deteriorated sharply at the beginning of the new campaign.
United’s struggles have included poor results, concerns about the squad and reported tensions involving key players and the club hierarchy. Questions have also been raised about the team’s summer recruitment, particularly the lack of defensive additions.
Carrick leaves after a difficult spell, despite the strong finish to the previous season that had restored confidence among supporters.
Pochettino linked with Manchester United job
Attention has now turned to the search for Carrick’s replacement.
Mauricio Pochettino, currently head coach of the United States men’s national team, has emerged as a leading candidate. Reports say he has reached a verbal agreement in principle with Manchester United, although discussions involving a potential departure from his national-team role and the necessary buyout arrangements remain relevant.
The club has not officially confirmed Pochettino’s appointment. Its statement only says that it intends to name a permanent successor as quickly as possible.
For now, Manchester United face the task of stabilising their season and moving away from the relegation zone. The next appointment will be under immediate pressure to improve results and restore confidence at Old Trafford.
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