Manchester United have sacked head coach Michael Carrick with immediate effect following a disastrous start to the 2026/27 season.
Renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano broke the news on his X (formerly Twitter) account, writing: “BREAKING: MANCHESTER UNITED HAVE SACKED MICHAEL CARRICK WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT.”
Carrick leaves Old Trafford with United languishing in 18th position on the Premier League table, having collected just eight points from their opening 10 matches.
The Red Devils have managed just one victory in their first 10 league fixtures, a poor run that has left them battling in the relegation zone.
Their struggles have also extended to other competitions, with the team conceding 30 goals in 11 matches across all competitions, the worst defensive record among clubs in Europe’s top five leagues at the time of the reports.
United’s disappointing performances intensified pressure on Carrick, with the club’s hierarchy reportedly reviewing his position following a series of underwhelming results.
Former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Carrick at Old Trafford.
The Argentine, who is currently in charge of the United States national team, is reportedly open to taking up the Manchester United job.
According to reports, United have been in discussions with Pochettino’s representatives as they seek to secure his services. However, the club would reportedly have to pay about £7 million to release him from his contract, which runs until 2030.
Pochettino has considerable Premier League experience, having previously managed Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. He guided Tottenham to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final.
Other managers linked with the Manchester United job include former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe, former Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann and former Chelsea and Napoli boss Antonio Conte.
United are expected to move swiftly to find a replacement as they seek to revive their season and move away from the relegation zone.
Zimpapers Sports Hub/Online
