Wilcox backs Carrick while a board rival pushes for his exit
Jason Wilcox, Manchester United’s director of football, is openly defending Michael Carrick’s position as manager, while an unnamed board member is reportedly urging the club to dismiss him. The clash highlights a growing divide within the Red Devils’ hierarchy as the season unfolds.
Carrick was first installed as caretaker in January 2026 and earned a permanent contract at the end of the previous season. The former Manchester United and England international midfielder has guided the club to Champions League qualification for the 2026/27 campaign, prompting INEOS, the co‑owners, to back his appointment for Man Utd.
Early season struggles
United entered the campaign expected to challenge for the Premier League title, yet they have amassed only four points from four league games. Their league cup run also faltered with a 3‑2 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion at Old Trafford on Wednesday evening.
Italian media have speculated that United may target former Chelsea boss Antonio Conte as a replacement, even though Conte has been out of work since leaving Napoli at the end of last season.
Manchester United warned hiring Conte could repeat swift Chelsea collapse
No sack plans confirmed
TEAMtalk reported that INEOS have no intention of removing Carrick, a view echoed by The Athletic’s correspondent Laurie Whitwell. Whitwell wrote on X at 8:09 am on September 18: “No indication of #MUFC looking at head coach contingencies, with Michael Carrick secure. But results will dictate. Scrutiny at all levels. Players, execs, owners. Glazer debt underpins modest approach by INEOS regime this summer.”
YouTuber Mark Goldbridge also highlighted the split, posting at 9:03 am on September 18: “Someone on the board isn’t convinced by Carrick. It’s not Wilcox though. Wilcox is firmly with Carrick and believes United should stick with his decision for the long term.” He added that Wilcox’s own track record is “catastrophic” and questions why he remains in charge.
Wilcox’s remit includes close involvement in training and recruitment, and since arriving in April 2024 he has overseen the dismissals of Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim. His continued influence despite a string of poor results fuels the boardroom tension.