AFCON 2025
Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick as head coach, less than six months after handing him a new two-year contract, with former Tottenham, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino lined up as his replacement.
Carrick’s departure follows a difficult start to the 2026/27 Premier League campaign, with United recording their worst-ever start to a league season. The Red Devils have managed just one victory in their opening 10 matches and currently sit in the relegation zone.
In a statement released on Thursday, November 12, Manchester United confirmed that the club had reached the difficult decision to part ways with the former midfielder, citing the need for a change to achieve their ambitions.
The decision was reportedly ratified by minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe during a meeting in Monaco, following recommendations from chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox.
Meanwhile, United have reached a verbal agreement with Pochettino, who is currently in charge of the United States men’s national team. The Argentine is expected to complete his international commitments before taking over at Old Trafford.
According to reports, Pochettino has a £7 million release clause in his recently signed contract with the United States Soccer Federation, with discussions between both parties expected to intensify in the coming days.
Carrick’s exit comes after Sunday’s dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa, in which United twice came from behind after trailing 2-0 and 4-2. Although the comeback earned them a point, it was not enough to change the club hierarchy’s decision.
The 45-year-old initially took charge in January 2026 following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim. He enjoyed an impressive spell, winning 12 of his 17 matches and guiding United to a third-place finish, securing Champions League qualification.
His performances earned him a nomination for the Premier League Manager of the Season award before he signed a contract extension on May 22, keeping him at the club until 2028.
However, just three wins in 15 matches across all competitions this season ultimately brought his time at Old Trafford to an end.
Pochettino, who has previously managed Tottenham, Chelsea and PSG, has been considered for the Manchester United job on three separate occasions. He now appears close to finally taking charge of the club.
If appointed, the Argentine will become Manchester United’s eighth permanent head coach since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013.
Meanwhile, Carrick’s assistant coaches, Jonny Evans and Jonathan Woodgate, are also expected to leave the club as part of the coaching changes.
