Manchester United have officially parted ways with head coach Michael Carrick following a disappointing start to the 2026/27 Premier League campaign, with Mauricio Pochettino emerging as the leading candidate to replace him.
The Red Devils confirmed Carrick's departure on Thursday, November 12, bringing an end to his latest spell in charge despite an impressive turnaround that secured a third-place league finish last season.
According to Sky Sports, United have already reached a verbal agreement in principle with Pochettino, who is currently managing the United States men's national team.
The Argentine is expected to return to Premier League management, although negotiations involving his release from US Soccer and the appointment of his coaching staff remain ongoing.
Manchester United confirm Carrick's departure
United announced that Carrick had left his position after the club's hierarchy concluded that a managerial change was necessary to revive their season.
The former England international returned to Old Trafford in January 2026 and oversaw a remarkable improvement in results during the second half of the 2025/26 campaign.
Under his leadership, United won 12 of their remaining 17 Premier League matches, collecting more points than any other club during that period and securing a third-place finish.
However, the team's struggles at the beginning of the new season prompted the club to reconsider its direction.
In an official statement, United acknowledged Carrick's contribution and praised his professionalism, dedication and leadership throughout his time in charge.
The club also emphasised that Carrick would retain his legendary status at Old Trafford and confirmed its intention to appoint a permanent replacement as quickly as possible.
Pochettino reaches agreement with Manchester United
Attention has now shifted to Pochettino, with Sky Sports reporting that the 54-year-old has reached a verbal agreement in principle to become United's next head coach.
The former Tottenham Hotspur, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea manager has been linked with the Old Trafford position on several previous occasions.
United reportedly considered appointing Pochettino in 2022 before ultimately selecting Erik ten Hag.
This time, negotiations appear to have progressed significantly, although several contractual matters must still be resolved before an appointment can be finalised.
Pochettino's agreement with the United States reportedly includes a £7 million release clause, which United must address in discussions with US Soccer.
The club must also finalise arrangements for his backroom staff.
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Pochettino is expected to remain in charge of the United States for their two international fixtures against Haiti during the November international break.
United are reportedly prepared to accommodate those commitments while working towards completing his appointment.
Monaco meeting accelerates managerial change
The decision to replace Carrick followed discussions involving senior Manchester United officials in Monaco on Wednesday.
Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox met co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe to assess the team's performances and determine the club's next steps.
Carrick had already faced increasing scrutiny following United's 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth in October.
Although he initially retained the backing of the club's leadership, the continued concerns surrounding results eventually led to his departure.
The decision represents another significant managerial change for United as the club continues searching for sustained success following Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement in 2013.
Should his appointment be completed, Pochettino would become United's eighth permanent manager since Ferguson stepped down.
Liverpool clash could mark beginning of new era
Manchester United face a demanding schedule following Carrick's departure, beginning with a Premier League trip to Anfield to face Liverpool on Sunday, November 22.
The fixture could provide an immediate test for the club's next manager, depending on when the appointment is completed.
United are also scheduled to face Sporting CP in the Champions League on November 25 before returning to domestic action against Brentford and Newcastle United.
A Champions League meeting with RB Leipzig follows on December 8.
Pochettino would inherit a team facing considerable pressure to improve its domestic performances while remaining competitive in European football.
His experience managing Tottenham, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain could prove valuable as United attempt to restore stability and build on the progress achieved under Carrick last season.
What next for Carrick and Manchester United?
Carrick leaves Old Trafford having delivered an impressive finish to the previous campaign, but his inability to maintain that momentum ultimately cost him his position.
For United, the immediate priority is completing negotiations with Pochettino and establishing a clear direction for the remainder of the season.
Although Sky Sports reports that an agreement in principle has been reached, Manchester United have not confirmed Pochettino's appointment in the information available.
The coming days will therefore be crucial as the club attempts to finalise its managerial plans ahead of a challenging run of fixtures.
