Carrick sacked as Man United coach

Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick as head coach following a disappointing start to the 2026-27 season.

The club confirmed his departure in a statement on Thursday, bringing his second spell in charge to an end less than six months after he signed a two-year contract.

Carrick’s dismissal follows United’s poor run of results, which has seen them record just three wins in 15 matches this season and drop into the Premier League relegation zone.

The decision came despite a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday, when United fought back from two goals down to secure a point at Old Trafford.

According to Sky Sports, United have reached an agreement with former Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino to take over at Old Trafford.

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However, the Argentine is expected to remain in charge of the United States national team for their Nations League fixtures against Haiti on Saturday and Wednesday before beginning his new role.

Several reports suggest that Pochettino has a £7m release clause in his recently signed contract with the US Soccer Federation, with discussions over his departure expected to gather pace.

In its statement, Manchester United acknowledged Carrick’s contribution during his first months in charge, when he guided the team to a third-place finish in the 2025-26 Premier League season.

“Michael rejoined the club in January and guided the team to a third-place 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,” the club said.

“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.”

The club also paid tribute to Carrick’s professionalism and his status as a former player.

“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 statement added.

United said they intend to appoint a permanent successor as quickly as possible.

Carrick was initially appointed interim head coach in January 2026 following the departure of Ruben Amorim.

He won 12 of his 17 matches in charge, earning a permanent appointment in May and a contract running until 2028. His performances also earned him a nomination for the Premier League Manager of the Season award.

Pochettino, who has previously been considered for the United job on three occasions, is now expected to become the club’s eighth permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson left in 2013.