Manchester United have sacked head coach Michael Carrick after less than a year in charge, following a poor start to the season that left the club in the relegation zone.
Carrick took over on an interim basis in January after Ruben Amorim was dismissed. He guided the team to a third-place finish in the Premier League, securing a Champions League spot for the current campaign. However, only one league win in 10 to start the season prompted the club to relieve him of his duties.
Hamilton's Influence on Carrick's Management
Before taking the United role, Carrick was praised for his work at Middlesbrough in the Championship. Part of his approach involved inspiring players with a quote from Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time Formula One world champion.
Carrick said: "I say it to the lads at Middlesbrough all the time, they are probably sick of me saying it but I read an unbelievable quote from Lewis Hamilton. Hamilton said, 'If I feel comfortable in the car, I'm not driving fast enough.' Don't ever be comfortable, because if you are comfortable you are not pushing enough."
He added: "That was always the case at United [as a player], when you came back for pre-season. That feeling of, 'What's next?' So I never actually felt settled because there was always something to push for."
Official Statement and Successor Speculation
Carrick and his backroom staff were informed of the decision during a meeting with chief executive Omar Berrada at the club's Carrington training ground. An official statement confirmed the departure.
The statement read: "Manchester United can confirm that Michael Carrick has departed his role as men's first-team head coach. Michael rejoined the club in January and guided the team to a third-placed Premier League finish by winning 12 out of the remaining 17 games of the 2025/26 season, accumulating the highest points tally in the league during that period. After a disappointing start to the season, the club has come to the extremely difficult conclusion that a change is necessary in order to achieve our ambitions."
The statement added: "Michael is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend. Just as he did as a player, he has conducted himself with the highest standards of dedication and professionalism throughout his time back with the club. His leadership and achievements last season will always be fondly remembered. The club intends to appoint a permanent successor as quickly as possible."
Mauricio Pochettino, currently head coach of the USA national team, is expected to be appointed as the permanent successor.
