It was widely anticipated that Manchester United would make a decision on the future of Michael Carrick following the club’s dreadful start to the new season.
Both director of football Jason Wilcox and Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada were present at Carrington for crisis talks after the 3-0 defeat at home to Bournemouth.
With the Red Devils having won only two games this term, the former United midfielder‘s time appears to be up, with INEOS making contact with Eddie Howe.
The former Newcastle United manager has reportedly started preparing for life at Old Trafford and is waiting for the call, but Laurie Whitwell of The Athletic does not envisage Carrick leaving so soon.
Carrick will take training tomorrow
Speaking on Talk of the Devils, the journalist claimed that, as things stand, the 45-year-old is set to take training on Tuesday.
“As we have it right now, I wouldn’t anticipate an update today either way on the future of Michael Carrick. I’d go further and say I’d anticipate him taking the training session tomorrow at Carrington.
“That’s the mood I’m getting. It’s not a fast moving situation, but it is moving. I wouldn’t even say that he’s staying as Manchester United manager, but the anticipation as it stands is that he’ll take training tomorrow morning.”
United were given the day off, but the head coach did come to Carrington in the afternoon to watch the Under-21s in action.
Uncertainty ahead of Chelsea clash
Saturday’s match against Chelsea will be a huge test for the 20-time English league champions, and it would have helped had INEOS clarified the situation by now.
However, possible reasons for this delay could include the compensation required to be paid to Newcastle United to bring in Howe, while differing opinions within the United hierarchy have also emerged.
Recruitment chief Christopher Vivell favours former Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, but Sir Jim Ratcliffe trusts Wilcox more. Antonio Conte’s demands have meant a move for the Italian is unlikely as things stand.
Carrick could also simply be coming in to say his goodbyes, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer did a few years ago. Clarity should emerge on Tuesday.
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