United's crisis: Carrick under pressure, German coach in the sights

At Old Trafford a tense silence hangs as Michael Carrick, after a season in which he led the Red Devils back into the Champions League, is now confronted with slipping points and a 0-2 defeat to Atlético Madrid. Despite a contract until 2028, mistrust of his leadership is growing.

Weak start to the season and costly signings

In the Premier League Manchester United have collected only six points after the first six matchdays and are therefore far behind expectations. The club has invested over €170 million over the summer, but has only strengthened the central midfield with the newcomers Youri Tielemans, Andrey Santos and Carlos Baleba – all so far without the hoped‑for breakthrough.

Centre‑back Lisandro Martínez openly criticised the squad policy after the defeat in Madrid and called for more support from the club hierarchy to remain competitive. Sporting director Jason Wilcox replied that more effort is expected from the players and a stronger squad is needed to get through evenings like that.

Lisandro Martínez puts technical director Jason Wilcox under fire after Champions League defeat

Speculation about a German successor

On the British island, intense discussion is already underway about possible successors. Samuel Luckhurst, Manchester United correspondent for The Sun, reports that the club leadership is still behind Carrick, but loyalty could soon be put to the test.

A concrete candidate is the 33‑year‑old German Fabian Hürzeler, currently manager of Brighton & Hove Albion. Under his guidance Brighton sit in a close third place, and the team won the international break 3‑0 against champions Arsenal.

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Although the situation is critical, an immediate departure for Carrick does not appear imminent, as his good performance in the pre‑season still receives recognition. Nevertheless, another setback in the coming weeks could finally shatter confidence in him.