Michael Carrick arrived at Manchester United's training ground early Tuesday morning, fueling speculation that he could be sacked today. The manager checked in at 7:15 a.m., on a day when Manchester United bosses are reportedly leaning towards installing a new head coach during the international break.
The team's position in the league has become increasingly precarious following a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday, which saw them drop into the relegation zone. This result marked United's worst start to a Premier League season in 40 years, with Carrick securing only one win from ten league games.
Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as a leading candidate to replace Carrick. The Argentine is currently managing the U.S. national team, and his contract reportedly includes a £7 million release clause. Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann, who were previously considered, might also be in contention. Howe would cost approximately £3 million in compensation, while Nagelsmann is available after leaving his role as head coach of the German national team.
Since taking over from Ruben Amorim in mid-January, Carrick guided United to a third-place finish and Champions League qualification last season. However, this season has seen a significant downturn, with only two wins in 15 games across all competitions, both against lesser-known opponents.
Despite the mounting pressure and reports of an impending decision, insiders suggest that speculation about Carrick's dismissal might be premature. The expectation at Old Trafford, however, is that a new manager will be in place for the upcoming match against Liverpool.
Carrick, who was handed a two-year contract in May, expressed defiance when asked about resigning. "That's not going to happen," he stated. "I don't like this situation and where we are. But we can do something about it. I'm quite clear with what direction the club needs to go in, and it's got to win games."
If Carrick is sacked, it would mark the search for Manchester United's eighth permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson retired over 13 years ago. Pochettino has been a name linked with the club on multiple previous occasions, including when Erik ten Hag was appointed and later sacked.