Manchester United have sacked head coach Michael Carrick following the club’s disappointing start to the season.
The decision came on Thursday, November 12, 2026, after United slipped into the Premier League relegation zone.
The club confirmed Carrick’s departure in an official statement. It said a change was necessary to achieve its ambitions.
“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,” United stated.
The club also praised Carrick’s professionalism and contributions during his time at Old Trafford.
Pochettino Emerges as Leading Replacement
Former Tottenham, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain manager Mauricio Pochettino is reportedly set to replace Carrick.
Reports indicate that Manchester United have reached an agreement in principle with the Argentine coach.
Pochettino currently manages the United States men’s national team. He signed a contract extension earlier this year, keeping him in the role through the 2030 World Cup.
United will reportedly need to negotiate his release from the national team setup. Reports also indicate that his contract contains a release clause.
The club says it intends to appoint a permanent successor as quickly as possible. However, United have not officially confirmed Pochettino’s appointment.
Carrick’s United Reign Ends After Poor Results
Carrick initially returned to Manchester United in January 2026. He took charge after the club dismissed former manager Ruben Amorim.
His interim spell produced impressive results. United won 12 of his 17 matches and secured third place in the Premier League.
That finish also earned the club a return to the Champions League. United subsequently rewarded Carrick with a two-year contract in May.
However, his fortunes changed dramatically this season. United managed just one league victory in their opening 10 matches.
The team also suffered defeats against Bournemouth and Chelsea. Those results increased pressure on Carrick and raised concerns about the club’s direction.
Their latest match ended in a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa. United twice recovered from two-goal deficits but could not secure all three points.
The result left the club in 18th place, inside the relegation zone.
Pochettino Faces Major Challenge at Old Trafford
Pochettino could inherit a struggling squad with serious pressure to improve results.
The Argentine has previously managed Southampton, Tottenham, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain. He also led Tottenham to the 2019 Champions League final.
Manchester United now face the task of finding stability after another managerial change.
Their next scheduled Premier League fixture is against Liverpool on November 22. The match will take place at Anfield after the international break.
Pochettino’s expected arrival could mark another major chapter in United’s search for consistency since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013.
