Michael Carrick has thanked Manchester United's players and supporters following his sacking and insisted he wants 'nothing but success' for the club.
Carrick was dismissed by United on Thursday, with Mauricio Pochettino officially announced as his replacement on Friday afternoon. The 45-year-old returned to United in January following Ruben Amorim's departure, initially on an interim deal until the end of last season.
Carrick's United tenure
Carrick was rewarded with a two-year contract in May after United's strong finish to the Premier League campaign, during which no top-flight club collected more points than the 36 United earned following his arrival.
However, United have made a poor start to this season, registering just one win in 10 Premier League games – a run that has left the team 18th in the table.
Support from fans and players
Carrick retained the backing of United's supporters, who have heavily booed the players during their dismal run, but the club's hierarchy opted to make a change by bringing in Pochettino.
In his statement released on Friday, Carrick wrote: 'I've had the immense privilege of leading Manchester United, the football club that I love.'
'There are very few who get to live that and feel it, and for that I'm incredibly grateful.'
'With that comes huge responsibility, and to be at Manchester United, you need to understand exactly what that means. It's different to anywhere else.'
'Ultimately, you need to push to be the best, but there is a culture, there are values and there are behaviours that you have to live by and respect, which have been built over a long period of time.'
'It's a football club that is unique, with substance and history that cannot be ignored. This is what inspired me every single day.'
Gratitude to supporters and staff
'I want to say a big thank you to the supporters. I must say, you are a special, rare breed.'
'We've had some great times this year and moments we'll all remember. The best thing about being in my position was seeing so many of you lose yourselves in the emotion of those moments, leaving the stadium desperate to come back again next time.'
'I just wanted to give you something back. That love never dies.'
'I know we've not had the results lately, but you've shown me nothing but love and support in times when the easiest thing, and what most end up doing, would be to turn the other way.'
'That means more than a win or two. That's what makes you who you are. That's why I fell in love with this club all those years ago.'
'A special thank you to my coaching staff. You gave me everything you had, every single day, and I couldn't have asked for any more. I'm incredibly grateful for your loyalty, hard work and support throughout. To all the staff behind the scenes, thank you for everything you do for this football club. So much of your work goes unseen, but it never goes unappreciated.'
'And to the players, thank you for your efforts and the moments we've shared. I wish you all the very best for what's ahead.'
'I want nothing but success for Manchester United. This club has been such a big part of my life and that will never change. I'll always be proud to have played my part and I'll always want the very best for it. I'll be right there with you from now on, watching from the sidelines, cheering the lads on.'
