Romano says United still backs Carrick despite poor start

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that INEOS continues to back Michael Carrick as Manchester United manager despite a disappointing start to the 2026/27 season, where United have collected only five points from their first five Premier League matches and have already exited the Carabao Cup.

Carrick was appointed permanent Manchester United boss ahead of the summer transfer window after the club secured Champions League qualification by finishing third in the Premier League. The appointment surprised many, as the former midfielder succeeded Ruben Amorim and was hailed as a club legend who had surpassed expectations.

Pressure ahead of Tottenham clash

Man Utd have gathered only five points from their opening five Premier League fixtures and have already bowed out of the Carabao Cup, leaving the side under pressure for this weekend’s league game against Tottenham Hotspur. Ex‑Spurs and Chelsea manager Antonio Conte has been linked as a possible replacement, and he hinted on Monday that he might be willing to take over.

Romano told Affidabile, “Manchester United is sending signals of confidence when it comes to Michael Carrick for one reason above all: the club feels it, believes the players are 100 % behind the manager, there’s no fracture or break.” He added that three defeats, two draws and only two wins in the last seven games are too few, and that the names of Conte and Julian Nagelsmann are circulating as alternatives.

Owner confidence remains

Romano insisted that INEOS continues to back Carrick, despite the bleak run of results. He noted that there has been no recent contact with Juventus or AC Milan regarding Conte, and that the club’s priority is to give Carrick time to improve.

Some media outlets have criticised United’s owners, branding them as the “real villains”, but the hierarchy maintains that the focus remains on stabilising the season under Carrick.

United hope to reverse the trend starting with the home match against Tottenham, trusting that the players’ backing will translate into better results. The speculation around Conte and Nagelsmann persists, but the Red Devils’ leadership says the priority is to support Carrick and restore consistency.