Manchester United sacked manager Michael Carrick after 10 months in charge, the club announced on Thursday, as reported by ABC on November 12, 2026. The 20-time English champions sit in the Premier League relegation zone, in 18th place on eight points after 10 games, one point from the bottom. United had won only three of its 15 matches in all competitions under Carrick this season, including just one league victory, and drew 4-4 at home against Aston Villa the previous Sunday despite scoring twice in added time.

The club said a change was necessary after a disappointing start to the season. Carrick, 45, took over in January 2026 initially as interim manager and received a permanent contract in May after guiding United to third place and Champions League qualification; his winning percentage stood at 46.9 per cent. Sky Sports reported that Mauricio Pochettino, the current United States head coach and former Tottenham and Chelsea boss, was set to take over following a verbal agreement in principle, with United still negotiating terms for his backroom staff. With United not in action again until November 22 because of the international break, the club has time to finalise arrangements.

Carrick's departure continues instability at Old Trafford, where United has appointed seven permanent managers since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. The club shares the record of 20 English top-flight titles with Liverpool but has not won the Premier League since 2012-13, Ferguson's final season, a drought now extending into a 14th season.