Brief

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick faces sack amid winless slump

United are winless in eight games, sit near the bottom of the Premier League and face growing calls for Carrick's removal.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 26 Oct 2026 15:44:31 GMT

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick is reported to be on the brink of dismissal after a run of poor results that left the club 16th in the Premier League and 20th in its Champions League group, according to the Independent.

What happened

Since taking over in January, Carrick guided United to the best record in the league last season, but this campaign has seen a dramatic reversal. The team has failed to win in eight consecutive matches, including back‑to‑back defeats by lower‑league opponents. A recent loss to Bournemouth, where United employed a 3‑4‑3 system reminiscent of Portuguese coach Ruben Amorim, highlighted tactical struggles.

What the reports add

The Independent notes that Carrick’s squad selection has drawn criticism, citing the benching of captain Bruno Fernandes after he publicly questioned the manager’s tactics following a 4‑1 Champions League defeat to Como. Harry Maguire was named captain for the Bournemouth game, while younger players Shea Lacey and Joshua Zirkzee were preferred over Fernandes.

What was said

Carrick told reporters, “If I really had the answer, I wouldn’t have let it happen,” and added, “I have tried to do everything I can to not be in this position.” The article also quotes Carrick saying, “Certainly to get to this point there are a lot of questions to find the answers to.”

How it came about

United’s decline follows a series of heavy defeats and a perceived lack of mobility among players such as Lisandro Martínez, Diogo Dalot and Matheus Cunha. Earlier coverage by Felo News highlighted Carrick’s earlier reassurance before a Champions League tie in Como and the subsequent criticism from Fernandes after that loss, indicating a mounting crisis within the club.

Key facts

Manchester United are 16th in the Premier League. (independent.co.uk)
United sit 20th in their Champions League group. (independent.co.uk)
Carrick has not won in eight consecutive games. (independent.co.uk)
Bruno Fernandes was benched for the Bournemouth match after criticizing Carrick. (independent.co.uk)
Harry Maguire captained United against Bournemouth. (independent.co.uk)