Manchester United has parted ways with Michael Carrick as head coach, less than six months after he signed a two-year contract extension. Carrick's departure comes after a disastrous start to the season, with the team in the relegation zone, having managed only one win in 10 matches. His exit was confirmed after a meeting between club chiefs, including minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe, at a summit in Monaco.
Mauricio Pochettino is lined up to take over as head coach, with an agreement already in place. However, he is expected to remain in charge of the USA for their upcoming Nations League matches against Haiti before starting work at United. Pochettino has a £7m release clause in his contract with the USA, and talks with the United Soccer Federation are expected to intensify in the coming days.
Carrick's sacking follows a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday, which saw the team come from 4-2 down to salvage a draw. Despite the impressive comeback, it was not enough to convince the club hierarchy to retain him. Carrick had previously enjoyed success as United boss, winning 12 of 17 matches to secure a third-place finish in the Premier League and a Champions League spot.
The decision to sack Carrick was ratified by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, following recommendations from chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox. Carrick took training in Manchester on Wednesday, as United reached a verbal agreement with Pochettino. This marks United's eighth permanent head coach since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure in 2013.
Pochettino, formerly of Tottenham, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain, has been considered for the United job on three previous occasions. He is now poised to take the role, having signed a new contract with the USA. The Argentine coach will be tasked with turning around United's fortunes, which have declined significantly this season.
Carrick's exit marks a significant change in the team's leadership, with Pochettino set to bring his own style and approach to the role. The team's struggles this season have been a far cry from their previous successes, and it remains to be seen how Pochettino will address the challenges facing the club.
The appointment of Pochettino is expected to be finalized in the coming days, pending talks with the United Soccer Federation. If confirmed, Pochettino will become United's eighth permanent head coach since Sir Alex Ferguson's departure in 2013.
Key points
- Manchester United have agreed to a deal with Mauricio Pochettino to become their new head coach.
- Michael Carrick was sacked as Manchester United head coach due to a poor start to the season.
- Carrick had previously enjoyed success as United boss, winning 12 of 17 matches to secure a third-place finish in the Premier League.
Reporting sources
- Carrick sacked as Manchester United head coach · todaygh.com
