Romano: United to give Carrick one more chance
As the final whistle blew at Bournemouth, Michael Carrick stepped to the touchline, raised his hand and waved to the home crowd, who gave a standing ovation despite the 3‑0 loss. Behind him, Manchester United executives met in a conference room, still reeling from a 4‑1 defeat to Como in the Champions League.
Fabrizio Romano reported that Manchester United have decided to give the 45‑year‑old manager one more chance, even though Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann have been strongly linked with the vacancy. The Italian journalist said the club’s board chose to back Carrick rather than pursue the two high‑profile candidates.
United endured a dismal week, suffering a 4‑1 loss to Como in the Champions League and a 3‑0 home defeat by Bournemouth in the Premier League. The defeat to Bournemouth left the side winless in their last eight matches across all competitions.
Targeted replacements
Inside the club, many expected a swift dismissal of Michael Carrick and the appointment of a new coach. Director of football Jason Wilcox was reported to have named Eddie Howe as his primary target, while director of recruitment Christopher Vivell pushed for Julian Nagelsmann.
Nevertheless, United’s senior officials Laurie Whitwell and Mike Keegan disclosed on Tuesday that the board had opted to retain Carrick, granting him the opportunity to reverse the slump. Romano confirmed that Carrick will remain in charge for the upcoming Saturday clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Carrick gets another chance at Man Utd despite eight defeats
Board talks and player input
Romano quoted the club’s spokesperson saying, “There were discussions on Sunday night after the terrible game against Bournemouth, and on Monday the whole day was spent in conversation with the owner, CEO, director Jason Wilcox, Michael Carrick himself and the players.” He added that the decision was to back Carrick and give him at least one more chance.
Romano later warned that the reprieve cannot last indefinitely, stating, “I’m not saying Carrick is 100 per cent going to finish the season as Man Utd coach, because obviously the results are important for any coach.” He noted that United have not won a single game in their last eight outings, making the upcoming Chelsea fixture a crucial test.
Financial factors also weighed on the decision; INEOS, the club’s owner, is cautious about sacking another recently appointed manager. Hiring Howe would require a £3 million compensation payment to Newcastle, in addition to settling Carrick’s own contract.
United board keeps Carrick despite eight winless games
The board’s choice to stick with Carrick underscores a desire for continuity amid a chaotic managerial search, but the pressure remains intense as United strive to end a run of poor performances.