Manchester United Part Ways With Michael Carrick
Manchester United have parted ways with head coach Michael Carrick following a disappointing start to the 2026/27 football season, bringing an end to his spell in charge at Old Trafford.
The Premier League giants confirmed Carrick’s departure on Thursday, November 12, 2026, following a series of disappointing results that left the club struggling in the relegation zone.
The decision comes after United managed just one victory in their first 10 Premier League matches, collecting eight points and dropping to 18th position on the league table.
Carrick’s departure follows growing pressure on the former Manchester United midfielder, whose team struggled to maintain consistency despite showing signs of improvement in some recent performances.
In an official statement, the club expressed appreciation for Carrick’s contributions, particularly his achievements during the previous campaign.
The statement read:
“Manchester United can confirm that Michael Carrick has departed his role as men’s first-team head coach.”
The club further acknowledged his professionalism and dedication, describing him as a Manchester United legend who will always be remembered for his contributions to the team.
Carrick initially returned to Manchester United in January 2026 following the departure of Ruben Amorim.
His appointment brought renewed optimism to Old Trafford as he guided the team through an impressive run of results during the second half of the 2025/26 season.
Under his leadership, United won 12 of their remaining 17 Premier League matches, finishing third on the table and securing qualification for the UEFA Champions League.
His performances convinced the club’s hierarchy to hand him a permanent contract in May 2026, extending his stay until 2028.
However, the new campaign proved considerably more difficult, with United struggling to reproduce the form that earned Carrick the permanent position.
United’s disappointing campaign included defeats against Bournemouth and Chelsea, alongside a heavy loss to Como in the UEFA Champions League.
Their recent 4-4 draw against Aston Villa further increased concerns about the team’s performances, with United twice coming from two goals behind to rescue a point.
Despite the dramatic comeback, the result was not enough to convince the club’s management to continue with Carrick.
His departure means Manchester United will begin another search for a permanent head coach as they attempt to turn around their difficult season.
Following Carrick’s departure, former Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the leading candidate to take over at Old Trafford.
Reports indicate that Manchester United have reached a verbal agreement with the Argentine, who currently manages the United States men’s national team.
However, the club has yet to officially announce his appointment.
United will now be hoping to find a suitable replacement capable of restoring confidence, improving results and moving the club away from the relegation zone.
Carrick leaves Old Trafford having enjoyed a promising return before a difficult start to the new season ultimately brought his managerial spell to an end.
