Michael Carrick could return to punditry rather than management if he is sacked as Manchester United head coach, according to reports. The 45-year-old is expected to be dismissed at Old Trafford after overseeing the club's worst start to a domestic campaign in 40 years.
United, who have won just one league game all season, sit 18th in the Premier League table and have failed to improve their results since Carrick received a stay of execution during the last international break. A lack of progress has left the former England midfielder in a perilous position, with the Guardian reporting that the Red Devils are 'moving towards' firing their head coach.
Carrick's preference to stay in Manchester
Should Carrick depart United four months into the season, a swift return to management is not expected of the five-time league winner. The i Paper reports that sources close to Carrick claim he is settled in the Manchester area and would not look to move in the possible event of his sacking. He spent 12 years of his playing career at United, and his two children, daughter Louise and son Jacey, were born during his time at the club.
His inclination to stay is also impacted by Jacey currently starring for Manchester United's U18s. Carrick reportedly had a "lack of interest" in returning to management after leaving Middlesbrough, and some believe that heading into punditry instead of pursuing coaching could be his next job in football.
Punditry is a familiar role
It would not be an unfamiliar role for Carrick, having worked as a pundit for Prime Video last year following his departure from the Riverside Stadium. He was joined by his former Tottenham team-mate Dimitar Berbatov to provide expert analysis for Spurs' Champions League clash against Villarreal, which the English side won 1-0.
Carrick's exit would see United target their eighth permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement in 2013. Former Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is a frontrunner for the job and has yet to return to coaching since leaving the Magpies in July.
United's managerial contenders
United States manager Mauricio Pochettino is said to be keen on the role, and his contract with the national team includes a release clause should United desire to acquire his services. Ex-Germany and Bayern Munich boss Julian Nagelsmann and former Chelsea and Spurs manager Antonio Conte are also in contention for the job.
