Carrick under mounting pressure as United weigh his future and Fernandes' captaincy
Michael Carrick addressed a string of burning topics at a Friday press conference, confirming he has spoken to Manchester United officials about his own future and denying any imminent stripping of Bruno Fernandes’ captaincy, while acknowledging United’s dire form – winless in seven league games and sitting thirteenth in the EPL.
Carrick told reporters that discussions with United’s hierarchy are ongoing. “We have spoke, always conversations going on,” he said, adding that a reaction is needed from him and that “our responsibility is to lead”. He pledged to “hold that umbrella for me to get wet, and everyone stays dry”. He also said he will “turn it round” and keep the team protected. Carrick reiterated that any action will be taken for the club’s benefit. He confirmed the talks were with the Man hierarchy at Old Trafford and that the dialogue with the Man Utd board continues.
Captaincy and squad dynamics
When asked if Fernandes would lose the armband, Carrick stressed the collective over the individual. “The most important thing for me is the team, the squad and the dynamics,” he asserted, insisting that any decision must be “about the football club, and doing what is best for it”. He added, “I will always do what’s best for the football club.” He stressed that “the spirit, unity and togetherness needs to be there”.
On the dressing‑room atmosphere Carrick said it is not divided. “It is not divided. We just need to get back to doing what we do best,” he declared, promising to ensure “spirit, unity and togetherness” remain intact.
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United’s precarious position
United sit thirteenth in the EPL and have failed to win any of their last seven league matches. The club have recorded only two victories in eleven fixtures across all competitions this season, underscoring the pressure on Carrick. EPL News has highlighted the club’s precarious position and Squad Stats show United have only two wins. Carrick reflected that the club enjoyed five months of relative success before the recent slump.
Speculation over a new manager
Names such as Antonio Conte, Fabian Hurzeler, Eddie Howe, Julian Nagelsmann and Unai Emery have been linked with the job over the past week. Conte has even spoken publicly about the possibility, while Brighton boss Hurzeler has ruled out any move.
The board has decided to keep Carrick in charge for Sunday’s clash with Bournemouth, though many observers sense it could be his final appearance as United manager. United travel to Bournemouth after a 4‑1 defeat to Como in the Champions League. A loss could see him dismissed, given the club’s desperate need for a turnaround.
Man Utd may need to widen the hunt beyond Howe and Conte
Injuries continue to mount and players have begun voicing concerns, adding to the turmoil surrounding the squad. Carrick acknowledged the situation, saying “recently, we haven’t had a good time” and that he accepts “what we’re going through at the moment”. He admitted the recent loss “hurt a lot” and called it unacceptable.