Fabrizio Romano says Michael Carrick safe as United face relegation

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that 45‑year‑old Michael Carrick remains in charge of Man Utd, who sit 18th in the Premier League after their 4‑4 draw with Aston Villa.

Recent performances and league position

Manchester United came back from two goals down to secure a point in a pulsating 4‑4 draw with Aston Villa. The club sit 18th in the Premier League, as shown on the EPL News, Fixtures, Results, Squad and Stats pages. It remains their only win this season and, with more than a quarter of the campaign elapsed, United appear headed for the Championship. The Red Devils reside in the relegation zone, a position Carrick has overseen.

Romano's update on Carrick's future

Fans have repeatedly chanted in favour of Carrick and against the Glazers and Jason Wilcox, which Romano said helped keep him in post after the defeat to Chelsea last weekend at Man Utd. Carrick was granted two further games, during which United produced a comeback victory over Roma and a respectable draw with Villa. Romano now states the 45‑year‑old is safe and can focus on the international break without fearing dismissal. In a YouTube interview Romano quoted Carrick saying he expects to go forward, continue, recover injured players and be ready after the break.

United’s push for World Cup‑winning Argentine could oust Carrick

Romano added that United have not contacted any other manager officially and that Unai Emery was under serious consideration. However, Emery is tied to Aston Villa, who have offered him a new contract that is already advanced towards signing. Consequently, Romano believes Carrick has very good chances to remain after the break.

Future plans and external commentary

Romano warned United are expected to act in the coming weeks ahead of the January transfer window, noting the need for more than just Carrick. He said the club must also involve directors and other personnel, not rely solely on the manager. TEAMtalk reported United are plotting an ambitious move to appoint a top Bayern Munich coach as Carrick’s assistant.

Manchester United extend Carrick's wait as board stalls decision

Gary Neville lamented United’s 18th‑place standing and the pattern of poor results after defeats to Bournemouth and the Villa draw. Neville argued fans’ anger is now focused on the owners and that sacking Carrick or hiring a new manager would only provide a temporary lift. Carrick later said he does not wish to leave the club. A reporter noted that discussions about a departure are inevitable, creating an uncomfortable situation.