Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick as head coach following a disappointing run of results that has left the club in the Premier League relegation zone.
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 follows a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday, a result that left United 18th in the 20-team league with eight points from 10 matches. The club has recorded just one league victory this season and three wins in 15 matches across all competitions.
The 45-year-old had initially taken charge in January 2026 on an interim basis after the departure of Ruben Amorim. He made an immediate impact, 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 that momentum in the new campaign. A prolonged winless run, defensive problems and reported tensions within the dressing room intensified pressure on the former midfielder.
United said Carrick would always remain a club legend, praising his dedication and professionalism during his time as both a player and coach. 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 to replace him. Reports indicate that 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.
Despite winning major trophies under Mourinho and van Gaal, United have struggled to recapture the sustained domestic dominance they enjoyed under Ferguson, who guided the club to 13 Premier League titles during his 27-year tenure.
The club now faces another rebuilding period, with its next league fixture a high-profile visit to rivals Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.
