Manchester United have made a surprising decision regarding the future of Michael Carrick after crisis talks at Carrington on Monday.
Director of football Jason Wilcox and CEO Omar Berrada were present at the club’s training ground, and the head coach also arrived late in the afternoon.
It appeared that the former United midfielder would be dismissed, with Eddie Howe reportedly being considered as a potential replacement.
However, INEOS failed to make a decision until late on Monday, and the expectation was that the 45-year-old would take training on Tuesday and have the opportunity to say his goodbyes before departing.
Carrick will continue as head coach
But The Athletic have provided a sensational update on this matter. Laurie Whitwell has reported that Michael Carrick will be given time to turn the club’s fortunes around.
This means he will remain in charge for Saturday’s blockbuster Premier League clash against Chelsea.
“Michael Carrick will be given more time to turn Manchester United’s fortunes around after a meeting of the club’s hierarchy on Monday.
“Carrick’s position as head coach appeared under serious threat following Sunday’s 3-0 defeat at home to Bournemouth, a result which left United 16th and without a win in their last eight matches in all competitions.
INEOS’ surprising decision
“However, following talks on Monday between the club’s senior leadership figures, including co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, CEO Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, the decision has been made to give Carrick and the players more time.
“He was at Carrington on Monday to watch an Under-21s game before taking training as normal on Tuesday and he will be in charge when the club travel to face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.”
It is a surprising decision given the lacklustre performances from the team this season. Both off the ball and on it, the 20-time English league champions have disappointed majorly this term.
| Manager | From | To | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | Win % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michael Carrick | 01/07/2026 | present | 12 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 16.7% |
From a distinct lack of coaching to the players’ poor fitness levels, it is clear that Carrick’s time should be up.
Potential replacements being considered
But once again, INEOS’ indecisiveness means the fans will need to endure more misery after a poor summer of recruitment. It is unlikely that this group of players will start producing under the current boss.
United are trying to reduce the compensation required to bring in Howe, while Antonio Conte and Julian Nagelsmann are also reportedly on the club’s radar.
Feature image Carl Recine via Getty Images
