Man United sack head coach Michael Carrick after poor run leaves club in relegation zone
Manchester United have parted ways with head coach Michael Carrick following a disappointing start to the 2026-27 Premier League season, bringing an end to his second spell at Old Trafford.
The decision comes after a difficult opening to the campaign, with United languishing in 19th place in the Premier League table after 10 matches. The Red Devils have managed just one victory during that period, leaving them facing an unexpected relegation battle and prompting the club hierarchy to make a change in the dugout.
United confirmed Carrick’s departure in an official statement, thanking the former midfielder for his contribution to the club and acknowledging his achievements during his return last season.
“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 statement read.
The club also confirmed that it intends to appoint a permanent successor as quickly as possible. However, no replacement has been announced, with the immediate focus likely to be on finding a candidate capable of turning around United’s fortunes.
Carrick’s departure marks a disappointing end to a tenure that had begun with considerable promise. Having returned to Manchester in January, the former England international initially took charge of the first team and made an immediate impact, guiding the club through an impressive run of results.
CARRICK’S PROMISING RETURN
Carrick rejoined United in January 2026 and helped revive their campaign after a difficult period. He guided the Red Devils to a third-place finish in the Premier League, winning 12 of their remaining 17 matches during the 2025-26 season.
United also accumulated the highest points tally in the league during that period, underlining the impact Carrick made after taking charge. His work in the dugout convinced the club to hand him the head coach’s position on a permanent basis ahead of the new campaign.
The appointment was seen as an opportunity to build on the momentum generated during the closing months of the previous season. Carrick, who spent 12 years at Old Trafford as a player, was familiar with the club’s expectations and had earned considerable goodwill among supporters.
However, the start of the 2026-27 campaign has been a different story altogether.
United have struggled to find consistency, with their lack of victories exposing problems at both ends of the pitch. Their position in 19th place after 10 matches has intensified the pressure on Carrick, with the club unwilling to allow the situation to deteriorate further.
The decision to part ways with the 45-year-old comes despite his impressive work last season, highlighting the urgency surrounding United’s current predicament.
UNITED BEGIN SUCCESSOR SEARCH
In its statement, Manchester United were keen to acknowledge Carrick’s contribution and his association with the club, describing him as a legend who had maintained the highest standards of dedication and professionalism.
“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 added.
The club also expressed its appreciation for his leadership and achievements during the previous campaign, which helped United secure a top-three finish and return to the UEFA Champions League.
United now face an important decision over who takes charge of the first team. With the club sitting in the relegation zone, the next appointment will carry significant pressure, particularly with little room for a lengthy rebuilding process.
While Mauricio Pochettino has been linked with the managerial position, Manchester United have not officially confirmed an appointment or named their preferred candidate.
The Argentine has considerable Premier League experience from his time at Tottenham Hotspur and has also managed Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and the United States men’s national team.
For now, United’s priority will be to identify a successor who can quickly restore confidence and get the team climbing the table. Having started the season with ambitions of challenging near the top, the immediate objective has shifted towards avoiding a prolonged battle against relegation.
Carrick leaves Old Trafford with the credit of having delivered an impressive turnaround last season, but his successor will inherit a club in need of an immediate response.
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