Harry Maguire has paid tribute to Michael Carrick after he was sacked by Manchester United following a miserable start to the season.
Carrick was sacked on Thursday morning after chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox met with minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco on Wednesday. The United hierarchy believe he has been underperforming with the players at his disposal and have lined up Mauricio Pochettino as his replacement.
Poor Run of Form
United sit 18th in the Premier League, having taken just eight points from their opening 10 matches. They have won just three matches in all competitions so far this season and have the joint-worst defensive record in Europe's top five leagues.
Carrick was handed the reins on a permanent basis in May after a successful spell as interim boss. But, having guided United to third in the Premier League after Ruben Amorim's sacking, he could not sustain that form.
Maguire's Message
Despite the dreadful form, he remains popular among the club's fans - and among the players, if Maguire's message is anything to go by. Alongside a picture of him shaking hands with Carrick, the defender posted on Instagram: "Will always be a legend. Respect. Thank you."
Carrick continued to take United training this week during the international break, even after it became clear he would be sacked and that Pochettino would leave his role as United States boss to replace him.
Club Statement
"Manchester United can confirm that Michael Carrick has departed his role as men's first-team head coach," United said in a statement.
"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."
"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.
Pochettino Expected
United will have to pay the United States £7.4million to release Pochettino from the contract extension he signed in August following the World Cup. The former Tottenham and Chelsea manager's coaching staff will require further payments.
Pochettino is expected to arrive at Carrington in time to take charge of United's next match in the Premier League against Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.
