Manchester United Sack Michael Carrick With Immediate Effect

Manchester United have sacked head coach Michael Carrick with immediate effect following the club’s disappointing start to the 2026/27 season.

The decision, reported on Thursday, November 12, brings an end to Carrick’s spell in charge at Old Trafford after a disastrous run of results left the Premier League giants in the relegation zone.

Football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano announced the development, stating that Manchester United had decided to part ways with the former England international with immediate effect.

Carrick’s dismissal follows mounting pressure on his position after United managed just one victory in their opening 10 Premier League matches, collecting eight points and dropping to 18th place on the table.

The club’s latest disappointment was a dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa, in which United twice fought back from two-goal deficits to rescue a point.

Despite the late comeback, the result did little to ease concerns over the team’s performances, particularly its defensive weaknesses and inability to secure victories.

The club’s hierarchy had reportedly been reviewing Carrick’s future following a series of disappointing performances, with chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox involved in discussions with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Carrick, 45, returned to Manchester United in January 2026, initially taking charge as interim manager following the departure of Ruben Amorim.

He impressed during that spell, guiding the club to a third-place Premier League finish and qualification for the UEFA Champions League.

His performances earned him a permanent appointment in May 2026, with United handing him a contract running until 2028.

However, his second spell at the club proved considerably more difficult, as United struggled to maintain consistency and suffered a series of damaging results.

Meanwhile, former Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Carrick.

Pochettino, who currently manages the United States men’s national team, has reportedly reached an agreement in principle with Manchester United, although details of his potential appointment and release arrangements remain subject to confirmation.

United are expected to use the international break to reorganise their coaching structure ahead of their next Premier League fixture against Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.

Carrick’s departure represents another significant managerial change for the club as it continues its search for stability and a return to the top of English football.