Michael Carrick will remain in charge of Manchester United for their trip to Chelsea this weekend, with sources telling BBC Sport the 45-year-old will be given the opportunity to turn things around at Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick (Credits: BBC Sport)
Carrick oversaw training on Tuesday morning as United prepare to end a run of eight matches without a win in all competitions when they visit Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
Carrick Gets Chelsea Game After Bournemouth Defeat
Sunday’s 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth at Old Trafford plunged Carrick’s future into serious doubt, leaving United sitting just one place above the relegation zone. The club’s hierarchy are understood to have explored replacements, with former Newcastle boss Eddie Howe and former Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann both under consideration.
But sources say Carrick will not only take charge against Chelsea — he will also be given a chance to revive the club’s fortunes on the pitch. Aston Villa boss Unai Emery is also admired at United, though his contract would complicate any move.
From Champions League High to Winless Run
Carrick took interim charge in January following Ruben Amorim’s departure and was rewarded with the permanent job in May, after securing Champions League qualification with an impressive run that ended in a third-place finish.
That form has collapsed this season. United have won just one of their eight Premier League matches so far, and the pressure has spilled into public view. Defender Lisandro Martinez criticised the board for a lack of investment after a 2-0 Champions League defeat by Atletico Madrid, while captain Bruno Fernandes questioned Carrick’s tactics after a 4-1 loss to Como. Fernandes was then dropped to the bench for the Bournemouth game and remained an unused substitute.
After the Bournemouth defeat, supporters chanted Carrick’s name as he walked to the tunnel, before turning their boos on the players. Carrick gestured towards the Stretford End in response, later telling Sky Sports: “It wasn’t a farewell from me. I’ve mixed emotions, I’m feeling it for my players, they’re going through a tough spell.”
He added: “The situation is where we are and we haven’t had results or performances that have been good enough.” Carrick was back at the training ground on Monday morning despite the first team being given the day off, and again early on Tuesday. Now the Chelsea game becomes his chance to prove the board’s patience is justified.
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Source: BBC Sport — read the full story there.
