Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick as manager after a dismal start to the 2026-27 season.
Carrick’s departure came after a run of three wins, five draws and seven defeats in their first 15 matches across all competitions this season, which has left them 18th in the Premier League, 17th in the Champions League’s league phase table and eliminated by Brighton in the Carabao Cup’s third round.
Utd’s lacklustre performances and public criticism from Lisandro Martinez and Bruno Fernandes after Champions League away defeats at Atletico Madrid and Como almost cost Carrick his job just three weeks ago, but the club gave him until the international break to turn results around.
Sadly that anticipated improvement failed to materialise despite a second-half comeback in a 3-2 Champions League win over AS Roma, followed by a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa in the Premier League in Utd’s last two matches.
Club officials consequently decided that Carrick’s time in charge was at an end in order to give the Red Devils the best possible chance of avoiding relegation to the Championship, following a review between the club owners in Monaco yesterday (11 November).
In a club statement, Utd confirmed that the decision was taken in light of a tricky start to the campaign and change is needed if want to stay in the top flight.
“Manchester United can confirm that Michael Carrick has departed his role as men’s first-team head coach.
“Michael rejoined the club in January and guided the team to a third-placed Premier League finish by winning 12 out of the remaining 17 games of the 2025/26 season, accumulating the highest points tally in the league during that period.
“After a disappointing start to the season, the club has come to the extremely difficult conclusion that a change is necessary in order to achieve our ambitions.
“Michael is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend. Just as he did as a player, he has conducted himself with the highest standards of dedication and professionalism throughout his time back with the club. His leadership and achievements last season will always be fondly remembered.
“The club intends to appoint a permanent successor as quickly as possible.”
Carrick’s sacking ultimately came just six months after he signed a permanent contract in May, following a five-month interim spell in the second half of last season following Ruben Amorim’s firing in early January.