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Michael Carrick’s departure as Manchester United manager followed a series of clear signals from the club’s leadership regarding his future. According to sources, the club’s hierarchy had communicated that a decision regarding his position was imminent before his eventual dismissal on Thursday.
The lead-up to Carrick’s departure
On Monday, Manchester United chief executive Omar Berrada contacted Carrick’s agent to inform him that he and director of football Jason Wilcox would meet with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco to discuss the head coach’s future. A similar conversation reportedly took place between Wilcox and Carrick the following day. While it was made clear that a recommendation regarding his tenure would be made, it remained uncertain whether Carrick was explicitly told he would be relieved of his duties.
Behind the scenes, there is reportedly some regret at United that the process leading to the sacking played out so publicly. However, officials felt they maintained as much transparency as possible given the scale of the club. The decision followed a critical three-game stretch against Chelsea, Roma, and Aston Villa, where the leadership team demanded improvements in both results and team structure. Despite the pressure, the team conceded eight goals during this period, and the club concluded that the progress was insufficient.
Pochettino’s path to Old Trafford
As the club evaluated Carrick’s performance, they became aware of a $10 million (£7 million) release clause in Mauricio Pochettino’s contract with the United States national team. Sources indicated that representatives for the Argentine manager brought this clause to the attention of the Premier League side.
United’s leadership contacted the US Soccer Federation on Wednesday to confirm the clause and their intent to activate it. The development was not unexpected for the American federation, as Pochettino had been transparent with his employers regarding his discussions with United and his desire to return to English football.
A turbulent tenure
Carrick leaves the club with his reputation as a Manchester United great intact, having been praised for his dignity during the recent turmoil. Initially appointed on an interim basis following the sacking of Ruben Amorim in January, Carrick was credited with bringing calm to the squad and allowing forward players more freedom. He won 12 of his final 17 matches last season, earning him a two-year permanent contract.
However, the current season began with a loss to Hull City, and the team has since struggled, currently sitting second from the bottom of the Premier League and 17th in the Champions League standings.
Manchester United aims to have Pochettino in place as soon as possible, though they are respecting his commitments to the United States team, which has two upcoming fixtures against Haiti. Should Pochettino manage the second match on 18 November, he is expected to arrive at United’s Carrington headquarters on 19 November, just four days before the team faces Liverpool.
