Michael Carrick's future as Manchester United manager is under renewed scrutiny, with the club's INEOS ownership set to hold discussions on Monday and during the international break over whether to dismiss him. Carrick was given three games to prove himself after a 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth, but results have barely improved since.
Since that loss, United have managed just one win, a comeback victory over Roma in the Champions League, which came either side of a 2-0 defeat to Chelsea and a 4-4 draw with Aston Villa on Sunday. United sit 18th in the Premier League with one win from 10 games.
Writers split on Carrick's future
Express Sport writers have offered contrasting verdicts on whether Carrick should be sacked. Charlie Malam argued that United need an upgrade, saying: "If Manchester United want to be a serious football club again, it's pretty clear they need an upgrade on Michael Carrick." He acknowledged the two comebacks but criticised the team's defensive issues, adding: "Very little will improve under Carrick."
Amos Murphy said the best time to sack Carrick was immediately after hiring him, and the second-best time was after the Bournemouth defeat. He noted that United have issues deeper than Carrick, but added that "he's grossly underqualified and shouldn't be in charge of the club."
Relegation zone pressure and boardroom blame
Archie Griggs described Carrick's position as "untenable to the point of no return," pointing to the club's relegation zone standing in mid-November. He acknowledged that United's plight is "largely down to the suits in the boardroom," but said Carrick "looks out of his depth in the Old Trafford dugout."
Jack McEachen offered a contrasting view, backing Carrick to stay despite the disastrous season. He noted the lack of outstanding candidates to replace him and reminded that Carrick led United to third place just months ago. He suggested INEOS should acknowledge that Carrick was not properly supported in the summer and make up for it in January.
The decision now rests with INEOS, who will weigh the options during the international break. The outcome will determine whether Carrick continues at Old Trafford or is replaced before the next Premier League fixture.
