Manchester United have dismissed head coach Michael Carrick, describing the decision as "extremely difficult" and praising the 45-year-old for conducting himself with the "highest standards of dedication and professionalism."
Carrick was removed from his duties on Thursday morning, 16 games into the season, with United in the relegation zone and without a Premier League win since August.
Pochettino Targeted as Successor
The club is now set to push ahead with negotiations for Mauricio Pochettino as it searches for its fourth permanent head coach since INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe took control of day-to-day running in February 2024.
Carrick becomes the first managerial casualty of the Premier League season, with United acting after weeks of speculation about his future. He first came under serious pressure after the 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como last month, but remained in charge for four further games without an upturn in results.
Club Pays Tribute to Carrick
Supporters were sympathetic to Carrick's situation, applauding him after every game, but it felt like a case of when, not if, the former England international would be sacked.
United praised Carrick for his professionalism during an uncertain period, as it emerged the club was actively pursuing Pochettino while Carrick continued his duties. A club 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.
"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."
