Manchester United Manager Michael Carrick Sacked In Relegation Slump
Manchester United dismissed head coach Michael Carrick on November 12, 2026, after a 4-4 draw with Aston Villa pushed the club into the Premier League relegation zone. The Ineos football operations board initiated a search for their fourth permanent manager in three years as the team recorded its worst opening to a league campaign in 40 years.
Mauricio Pochettino Emerges as Primary Target for Old Trafford Board
Eddie Howe
coachThe Ineos leadership team faces immediate financial and logistical hurdles to secure a replacement before domestic competition resumes. Mauricio Pochettino leads the shortlist as the preferred candidate, though extracting the Argentine from his United States national team contract requires navigating a release fee exceeding seven million pounds. Alternative candidates include former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler, though acquiring the latter mid-season involves substantial club compensation.
The club occupies a relegation place during the November international break following persistent defensive frailties. A high-profile fixture against Liverpool at Anfield follows immediately upon the return of domestic action.
Fabian Hürzeler
coachReporting by Jamie Braidwood for The Independent established the details of this managerial departure.