Manchester United have dismissed Michael Carrick after concluding that the squad at his disposal is far superior to what their current league position suggests. The decision came during the international break, following a run of one win in 10 Premier League games, which has been regarded internally as "not acceptable".
Three-match ultimatum ends in dismissal
Carrick was given three matches to prove he could turn the tide after heavy defeats against Como and Bournemouth a fortnight ago. A 2-0 loss at Stamford Bridge proved damaging, and although United claimed a 3-2 victory over Roma and battled to a 4-4 draw with Aston Villa, the club's board felt those games had not provided sufficient evidence that the team was heading in the right direction.
Ineos are firmly of the belief that United's playing squad is far more talented than their performances and results this season have shown, and there is optimism that a change in the dugout will spark a brighter future, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Pochettino talks and due process
The drawn-out nature of Carrick's dismissal has raised eyebrows, as the club pushed ahead with talks to bring in Mauricio Pochettino. United insist they have followed "due process", yet the way the sacking was handled has left much to be desired. Carrick continued to oversee training throughout the week, and sources at the club have paid tribute to the manner in which he conducted himself with complete professionalism throughout.
Carrick was originally brought in on a caretaker basis in January to replace Ruben Amorim, who departed with United languishing in sixth place. Carrick claimed victory in his opening two matches against Manchester City and Arsenal before steering the club to a third-placed finish in the division.
Summer spending and current standing
The 45-year-old wrapped up Champions League qualification with three matches remaining and was subsequently appointed on a permanent basis, putting pen to paper on a two-year deal. During the summer transfer window, United brought in Karl Darlow, Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba, splashing out £150 million on overhauling the midfield but choosing not to bolster other positions in the squad.
Carrick's sole victories this campaign have come against newly promoted Ipswich, Sabah and Roma. United were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by Brighton, throwing away a two-goal lead at Old Trafford, but alarm bells began ringing when they suffered a 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League before losing 3-0 to Bournemouth just days afterwards. Carrick departs with United sitting 18th in the Premier League.
