Carrick gets another chance at Man Utd despite eight defeats
Michael Carrick remains, according to leading media, on the bench of Manchester United, despite a run of eight matches without a win, and gets the chance to lead the team against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the match next Saturday.
Eight matches without a win
Manchester United has already gone eight games in a row without a win in all competitions. In the Premier League there were defeats to Manchester City, Fulham, Tottenham Hotspur and Leeds United, and a 0‑3 loss to Bournemouth. In the Champions League United lost 4‑1 to Como and also to Atlético Madrid, while the League Cup in September ended with a defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion. United's form under Carrick is being heavily criticised by the media.
The last win under Carrick dates from 10 September, when United beat Sabah FC 4‑0 in the Champions League. That 4‑0 victory was against the Saudi club Sabah FC and was the first Champions League win of the season.
Club board gives Carrick another chance
Despite the crisis, the board of Manchester United, under CEO Omar Berrada and football director Jason Wilcox, decided not to dismiss Carrick. The decision surprised many, as it was expected that Carrick would be sacked. There was reportedly a meeting on Monday between Carrick and the club leadership of Man Utd, in which it was confirmed that he will be given the opportunity to break the negative spiral.
Carrick to lead United against Chelsea, says BBC
After the 0‑3 loss to Bournemouth supporters sang Carrick’s name loudly, but then turned against the players, mocking them and hurling insults at the owners and decision‑makers. The supporters’ chant showed the division within the fanbase and the atmosphere at Old Trafford became even more tense.
For Carrick it is now crucial to resolve the situation around Lisandro Martínez and Bruno Fernandes. Both players were on the bench during the Bournemouth collapse and have recently had outbursts, making it necessary to restore their relationship. It is essential that Carrick provides clarity about their roles.
The upcoming match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge offers Carrick the chance to get the team back on track. Analysts point to United’s ability to score on the counter, which could be an important weapon in what is expected to be a tight game. Chelsea, who are playing at home, are seen as favourites, but United have recently shown that they can be dangerous on the counter‑attack.
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With at least one more match to prove themselves, time will tell whether the board’s confidence is justified. In the coming days the reactions of the media and the supporters will be closely monitored, and a positive result against Chelsea could be a first step to break the long winless run.