Gary Neville surprised United retain Carrick before Chelsea showdown
Former United captain Gary Neville said he was surprised but pleased that Manchester United have kept Michael Carrick in charge ahead of Saturday’s lunchtime clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, after the Red Devils’ 3‑0 home loss to Bournemouth on Sunday left them eighth game without a win and sitting 16th in the Premier League.
Loss to Bournemouth deepens crisis
United were humbled 3‑0 at home by Bournemouth on Sunday, a defeat that left the Red Devils without a win for a further match. The loss marked their eighth game without victory across all competitions. It also cemented United’s position down in sixteenth place in the Premier League table. The poor run has seen the United team slip further away from the European places they once occupied.
Speculation over Carrick’s future
A dejected Michael Carrick was seen walking a lap of the pitch after the final whistle, receiving loud applause from the remaining supporters. Many interpreted the solitary lap as a farewell to the fans who stayed inside Old Trafford. Speculation about his replacement has intensified, with Eddie Howe, Antonio Conte, Julian Nagelsmann and Fabian Hurzeler named among the high‑profile names linked to the job. The club has not confirmed any approach yet.
Neville’s reaction and upcoming fixtures
Despite the turmoil, Carrick remains at the helm 48 hours after the Bournemouth loss. reported that the 45‑year‑old will be given the opportunity to turn things around. He led a training session at Carrington on Tuesday morning and is expected to be in the dugout when Man Utd travel to Stamford Bridge for Saturday’s lunchtime kick‑off against Chelsea. The clash comes after United’s eight‑match winless streak.
Carrick gets another chance at Man Utd despite eight defeats
Gary Neville told that he was “surprised but happy” because he had been “absolutely certain” the Sunday scene would be Carrick’s end. Neville added that he hopes Carrick can get the players to start playing for him again, noting they have not done so in recent weeks.
In his post‑match interview, Carrick insisted his gesture towards the Stretford End was not a goodbye. He described his feelings as mixed, saying the situation is “hard for the players” and will take time to digest.
Eddie Howe is now seen as the frontrunner should Carrick lose his job. Chelsea enter the encounter after a 2‑0 defeat to Tottenham and will face Liverpool in a Carabao Cup tie at Anfield on Wednesday. United have already been knocked out of the competition, losing 3‑2 to Brighton at Old Trafford.
Neville later said United chiefs held crisis talks on Monday at Carrington, with the decision to keep Carrick arriving on Tuesday. He recalled previously predicting Carrick would be sacked within twelve to twenty‑four hours and noted rumours linking Howe or Nagelsmann to the vacancy. Carrick’s next chance to reverse fortunes comes this weekend against Chelsea, followed by a Champions League tie with Roma and a league clash with Aston Villa before the second international break.