Manchester United have reportedly sacked head coach Michael Carrick with immediate effect following a disappointing start to the 2026/27 season.
The development was reported by football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano on Thursday, November 12, 2026, as the Premier League giants prepare for another managerial change.
Carrick’s dismissal comes days after Manchester United played out a dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa, a result that further exposed the club’s struggles this season.
Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the leading candidate to replace the former United midfielder, with reports indicating that an agreement in principle has already been reached.
Here are seven key details about Carrick’s reported departure and Manchester United’s expected managerial change.
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1. Michael Carrick reportedly sacked by Manchester United
Carrick has reportedly been relieved of his duties as Manchester United head coach after less than six months in the permanent role.
The former England midfielder initially took charge as interim manager in January 2026 following the departure of Ruben Amorim.
His impressive interim spell earned him a permanent appointment in May, but the club’s performances have deteriorated significantly during the current campaign.
According to Sky News, Manchester United have now dismissed Carrick following their difficult start to the season.
2. Aston Villa’s 4-4 draw adds to pressure
Carrick’s departure follows Manchester United’s chaotic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils struggled defensively during the encounter and needed a late equaliser to secure a point.
The result left United in the relegation zone, intensifying concerns about their performance under Carrick.
3. Manchester United endure disastrous Premier League campaign
Manchester United have struggled to maintain consistency in the Premier League this season.
The club entered the international break with only one league victory from their opening 10 matches, leaving them 18th in the table with eight points.
The poor run represented one of the club’s worst starts to a league campaign in decades.
4. Mauricio Pochettino expected to replace Carrick
Former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino is expected to take over at Old Trafford.
The Argentine is currently managing the United States national team but has reportedly agreed in principle to become Manchester United’s next head coach.
According to Sky Sports, United have reached an agreement in principle with Pochettino ahead of Carrick’s departure.
5. Pochettino could cost Manchester United millions
Pochettino recently signed a contract extension with the United States national team.
However, reports indicate that his agreement contains a release clause worth approximately £7 million, potentially allowing Manchester United to secure his services.
The club is reportedly prepared to pay the compensation required to bring the Argentine manager to Old Trafford.
6. Carrick previously helped United return to the Champions League
Carrick’s managerial spell began positively after he replaced Amorim earlier in the year.
He guided Manchester United to a third-place Premier League finish last season, securing Champions League qualification.
His impressive interim record ultimately convinced the club to hand him a permanent contract.
However, his success during that period failed to translate into consistent performances during the new campaign.
7. Manchester United face another major rebuilding challenge
Carrick’s reported departure represents another managerial setback for Manchester United, who have struggled to establish stability since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.
Pochettino’s expected appointment could provide the club with another opportunity to rebuild its identity and compete for major honours.
The Argentine would face immediate pressure to improve results, strengthen the team’s defensive performances and move United away from the relegation zone.
With supporters demanding better performances, the incoming manager is expected to face a difficult challenge at Old Trafford.
Conclusion
Michael Carrick’s reported dismissal marks another turbulent moment in Manchester United’s recent history.
With Mauricio Pochettino expected to take over, the club will hope a managerial change can rescue its disappointing season and restore confidence among supporters.
The coming weeks could prove decisive in determining whether Manchester United can turn their campaign around.
