Jamie Carragher’s Michael Carrick criticism resurfaces as Manchester United confirm sacking

Jamie Carragher's criticism of Michael Carrick has returned to the spotlight after Manchester United confirmed the dismissal of their former midfielder on Thursday.

United have won just one of their opening ten Premier League matches, leaving them 18th in the table.

Carrick's departure comes less than six months after he signed a permanent contract, having guided United to Champions League qualification last season.

Mauricio Pochettino is now widely expected to replace him, although the appointment has not been officially announced.

Carragher had previously expressed doubts about whether Carrick possessed the experience required to manage Manchester United over the long term.

However, the former Liverpool defender also acknowledged his achievements during last season's successful interim spell.

Speaking on Stick to Football in October, Carragher argued that Carrick had helped restore stability at Old Trafford.

"He came in and Man United needed calm," he said.

"He did that amazingly. His results have been unbelievable since he came into the job."

Carragher subsequently became more critical as United's performances deteriorated.

Discussing Carrick's increasingly difficult position, he suggested the manager might privately welcome an end to the uncertainty.

"I think Michael Carrick would want to be put out of his misery. I really do."

Carragher also questioned how Carrick could continue motivating players who might already expect him to leave.

His remarks reflected concern about the situation at United, although he had previously argued against making another rushed managerial change.

Carrick returned to United in January 2026 and won 12 of his final 17 league matches, securing a third-place finish.

However, the club have managed only three victories in 15 competitive fixtures this season.

United confirmed his departure after Sunday's 4-4 draw against Aston Villa.

In their official statement, the club said a managerial change was necessary to achieve its ambitions.

Pochettino has reportedly reached a verbal agreement to take charge.

The Argentine remains under contract with the United States national team, with a reported release clause of approximately £7 million to £7.5 million.

United will attempt to finalise their managerial appointment before travelling to Liverpool on 22 November, with Pochettino's international commitments still to be resolved.