Manchester United have parted company with head coach Michael Carrick.
The former midfielder has departed after 16 matches in the permanent role, not counting preseason friendlies, and one win in the club’s last 11 games.
CEO Omar Berrada informed Carrick of the decision to remove him at Carrington on Thursday morning with his staff, including Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate and Jonny Evans, also exiting and leaving the training ground shortly after.
Following The Athletic’s report, United confirmed the news in a statement, thanking their former player for his time and efforts in charge.
“Michael is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend,” it read. “Just as he did as a player, he has conducted himself with the highest standards of dedication and professionalism throughout his time back with the club. His leadership and achievements last season will always be fondly remembered.”
United States head coach Mauricio Pochettino has quickly emerged as the chosen candidate to replace him, with The Athletic revealing United were finalising a deal for the former Tottenham Hotspur boss and before making formal contact with U.S. Soccer.
The Athletic reported on Monday that, following Sunday’s 4-4 draw with Aston Villa that left United 18th and in the Premier League’s relegation zone, the expectation was a change would be made before the trip to face Liverpool at Anfield following the international break.
hich The Athletic revealed is in the ballpark of $10million (£7.4m), is paid to release him from his contract which has him tied down through the 2030 World Cup. His current staff, including longtime assistant Jesus Perez, are set to follow him to Manchester.
United are the only Premier League team who have not won at least two league games this term, with their only victory in the division the 5-2 win at home to Ipswich Town.
They are without a win in eight league matches, while last week’s victory over Roma was United’s only win in their last 11 outings across all competitions.
The decision came after Fernandes appeared to question his team’s tactics following the defeat to Como, a week after defender Lisandro Martinez criticised the investment in the squad and director of football Jason Wilcox in an angry post-match interview. Fernandes returned to the starting lineup against Chelsea, a game United lost 2-0 and played the final 30 minutes with 10 players after Martinez was sent off.
Carrick was appointed United’s permanent head coach on a two-year contract in May following a successful period in interim charge, having replaced Ruben Amorim in January.