United Sack Carrick as Pochettino Leads Search

Manchester United sacked Michael Carrick after one win in the first 10 Premier League matches of the 2026/27 season left the club 18th, despite his having guided United to third place last season. The decision drew criticism from fans and former player Rio Ferdinand, who called on club leaders to explain it; supporters have directed anger at the Glazers, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the club’s football leadership. Mauricio Pochettino, currently coach of the United States men’s national team, is reported to be the leading candidate to replace Carrick, but no appointment is confirmed and international commitments could delay a move. United would need to negotiate his release from a contract running through 2030, with compensation reportedly around $10 million and possible additional costs for his coaching staff. The dismissal adds to the club’s costly post-Alex Ferguson managerial turnover, with some estimates of total compensation exceeding £100 million.