Carrick dismissed after dismal start to the season
Manchester United parted ways with Carrick on Thursday following a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa. The decision comes after a frustrating start to the campaign, bringing an abrupt end to the manager's tenure at Old Trafford.
Despite a strong finish to the previous season, the club's hierarchy ultimately decided that a change in leadership was necessary to meet their ambitions. The dismissal follows a tense period behind the scenes, marked by inconsistent results and highly publicised internal friction.
Fernandes and Maguire lead player tributes
Taking to Instagram story after the club confirmed the exit, Fernandes kept his farewell brief. The Portuguese midfielder shared a photograph of himself shaking hands with his former manager, accompanied by the short message: "Thanks for everything, boss."
The 32-year-old was not the only senior figure to acknowledge the departure. Harry Maguire became the first United player to publicly react to the news, writing: "Will always be a legend. Respect. Thank you.”
Tactical disputes and contract uncertainty
The straightforward tribute from Fernandes follows a recent fallout between the captain and his former manager. Last month, the reigning PFA Player of the Year openly criticised Carrick's tactical approach in the wake of a heavy 4-1 Champions League defeat against Como.
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That disagreement resulted in Fernandes being dropped for a subsequent Premier League fixture against Bournemouth. While the duo held clear-the-air talks at the Carrington training ground to resolve the issue, Carrick was ultimately relieved of his duties just weeks later.
Off the pitch, Fernandes’ own future at Old Trafford remains unresolved. He has reportedly rejected a second contract extension offer from the club. With his current deal expiring next summer, United face a race to negotiate fresh terms before January, when the midfielder becomes eligible to speak with potential new clubs.
United target Pochettino as successor
With Carrick gone, the Manchester United board is working to appoint a permanent replacement as quickly as possible. The club has identified former Tottenham and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino as a leading candidate for the vacancy.
Pochettino is currently serving as the head coach of the United States. Navigating a potential move for the Argentine will be United's top priority as they look to salvage their domestic campaign and stabilise the dressing room.