Michael Carrick has admitted he is on borrowed time at Manchester United, saying "whatever happens will happen" as the club weighs up his future. The head coach's position at Old Trafford looks precarious after a difficult first half of the season, with reports suggesting the club intend to replace him following high-level talks on Monday.
The Champions League comeback against Roma provided a rare bright spot, but results have largely been poor. A 4-4 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday papered over defensive problems, and many were surprised Carrick kept his job after a 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth. With United's decision-makers reportedly split on a succession plan, the former midfielder was given more time to turn things around.
Carrick's honest admission
Speaking before the Roma game, Carrick appeared to accept his fate. "I can't look into the future; I don't know what's gonna happen. I am really looking forward to the game tomorrow; you might think I'm crazy with the results we've had. Whatever happens will happen after that, whatever direction it goes in," he said.
United are languishing in the relegation zone at the international break. Asked if the November pause comes at a good time for the group, Carrick said: "Yeah, it's been a right mixed week or two or three, really, if you're looking at the events. But I'm pretty clear where we need to go and how we need to get there."
Replacement contenders
The final international break of the year would be a logical time for a change, with no free midweek until mid-December after United return to action with a trip to Liverpool on November 22. Former Newcastle boss Eddie Howe and ex-Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann are contenders to replace Carrick.
Mauricio Pochettino, the former Tottenham and Chelsea boss, has emerged as the new favourite. The ex-Argentina defender extended his deal in charge of the United States national team until 2030 just three months ago.
