Carrick stays as United head coach despite sack rumours
Inside Old Trafford on Sunday, a sea of supporters sang a rapturous farewell to Michael Carrick as Man Utd’s 45‑year‑old head coach walked down the tunnel, despite expectations that the club would dismiss him after a bruising week. Two reports later confirmed the decision to retain him.
Two reports have explained why Manchester United decided to keep Michael Carrick in his role as head coach rather than sack the 45‑year‑old, as many expected. Carrick looked set to be heading for the exit door after a damning week in which Man United were beaten 4‑1 by Como in the Champions League and lost 3‑0 at home to Bournemouth in the Premier League.
Recent defeats spark dismissal rumours
Fans inside Old Trafford on Sunday certainly anticipated it would be Carrick’s last game in charge, as they gave him a rapturous farewell after chanting against Jason Wilcox, INEOS and the Glazers. After Carrick headed down the tunnel, supporters aimed their rage towards the players, booing them off the pitch for letting their manager down.
Financial and fan factors tilt the balance
After Monday’s speculation, reports tipped United to fire Carrick and begin talks with either Eddie Howe or Julian Nagelsmann. Howe had been named as Wilcox’s favoured target, though he would cost £3million due to a compensation fee owed to Newcastle United.
Trusted United sources Laurie Whitwell and Mike Keegan revealed on Tuesday lunchtime that INEOS had taken the shock decision to keep Carrick in charge. The Athletic reported United could decide to keep Carrick in order to break the cycle of regular change in the dugout, noting that financial concerns would help his cause, including the compensation payable if he were axed.
suggested the significant support Carrick received during and after the loss to Bournemouth was noticed by United decision‑makers. INEOS seem to have confused United supporters not wanting to disrespect a club legend with actual fan support; the fanbase generally understands that Carrick has to go to improve results, but they blamed the owners and players.
United have a tricky run of fixtures coming up, involving games against Chelsea, Roma, Aston Villa and Liverpool. When United inevitably lose one or more of those matches, there will be fresh calls for Carrick to depart.