BREAKING: Manchester United Dismiss Carrick After Worst Premier League Start in 40 Years
Alex Fefegula Harding Manchester United have dismissed head coach Michael Carrick following a disappointing start to the 2026-27 campaign that has left the Premier League giants in the relegation zone.
The club confirmed Carrick’s departure Thursday, Nov. 12, ending his tenure after a prolonged run of poor results raised questions about the team’s direction and competitiveness.
United’s decision follows a difficult opening 10 league matches in which the club managed just one victory, collected eight points and dropped to 18th place in the standings, according to Reuters.
The results marked the club’s worst opening to a Premier League season in 40 years. A nine-game winless run further intensified pressure on the 45-year-old Englishman.
Carrick’s final run of matches included a 2-0 defeat against Chelsea, a 3-2 comeback victory over Roma in the Champions League and a dramatic 4-4 league draw with Aston Villa.
Despite showing signs of recovery against Roma and Villa, the performances failed to convince the club’s leadership that the team was moving in the right direction.
His departure represents a significant reversal of fortunes for the former Manchester United midfielder, who initially earned the permanent position after an impressive spell as interim manager.
Appointed permanently in May 2026, Carrick guided United to third place in the previous Premier League campaign, securing Champions League qualification before signing a contract extending to 2028.
Meanwhile, Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the leading candidate to succeed him. Sky Sports reported Thursday that United had reached a verbal agreement in principle with the former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager, who currently coaches the United States men’s national team.
Manchester United are now expected to begin the process of appointing a successor as they attempt to revive their domestic campaign and restore stability at Old Trafford.