Manchester United are expected to confirm the sacking of Michael Carrick today, with Mauricio Pochettino set to replace him as manager. The announcement follows a meeting of the Old Trafford hierarchy in Monaco on Wednesday, attended by Jim Ratcliffe, Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox.
Carrick's exit expected after poor start
Carrick's future has been the subject of constant speculation in recent weeks, despite only being made permanent manager during the summer. Under his guidance, the Red Devils have recorded their worst start in 40 years and currently sit in the relegation zone.
The former United midfielder was given three games to save his job following defeats to Como and Bournemouth last month. However, two comebacks in four days, which produced a win against Roma and a 4-4 draw with Aston Villa, appear not to have been enough.
Pochettino release clause triggered
It is understood that Ratcliffe and the Glazers signed off on the recommendation from Wilcox and Berrada that a change in the dugout was needed. Pochettino is expected to be that change, with United making contact with US Soccer to trigger their manager's £7.5million release clause.
Pochettino has a contract with US Soccer until 2030, when he was expected to guide them in the next World Cup. Instead, the Red Devils will pay in the region of £7.5m to bring him back to the Premier League.
Cost of the managerial change
United will also need to pay out Carrick, who signed a deal until 2028 earlier this year. However, it is believed a one-year break clause was inserted into his £5m-a-year deal, meaning United will be on the hook for around £3m.
Personal terms with Pochettino are understood to have already been agreed, meaning the process could now move quite quickly. This marks the third consecutive season in which Manchester United look set to sack their manager.
