Michael Carrick in action for Manchester United in 2026

Manchester United make Michael Carrick decision after Bournemouth humiliation

Adem Ozcan Last updated: Oct 27, 2026, 2:24 pm
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Image: IMAGO / News Images

Manchester United have reportedly decided against an immediate dismissal of Michael Carrick following Sunday's 3–0 defeat to Bournemouth, leaving the manager preparing for Saturday's Premier League trip to Chelsea.

The 45-year-old remains under intense pressure after a disastrous start to the season, with United sitting 16th in the table.

According to the Daily Mirror, the club's hierarchy are prepared to give Carrick another opportunity to improve results, although his longer-term future remains uncertain.

Carrick remains in charge after crisis talks

United officials held discussions at Carrington on Monday following the heavy home defeat to Bournemouth.

Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox reportedly considered Carrick's position and possible replacements.

However, no dismissal was announced, and Carrick has continued preparations for the Chelsea fixture.

United have won just two of their opening 12 matches across all competitions and are without a victory in eight games.

They have collected seven points from eight Premier League fixtures, leaving them only one point above the relegation zone.

After the Bournemouth defeat, Carrick acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his position.

"It's a tough situation, there's no hiding from it," he told Sky Sports.

The former United midfielder also made clear that he remained committed to doing his best for the club.

Manchester United consider managerial alternatives

Despite retaining Carrick for now, United are reportedly assessing possible replacements.

The Guardian claims Wilcox favours former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe, while recruitment director Christopher Vivell is an admirer of Julian Nagelsmann.

Antonio Conte has also been mentioned as a potential candidate, although there is no confirmation of a formal agreement with any replacement.

Carrick initially returned as United's interim manager in January following Ruben Amorim's departure before earning a permanent appointment in May.

However, results have deteriorated this season, with tensions increasing after captain Bruno Fernandes criticised the team's tactics following the 4–1 Champions League defeat to Como.

Carrick subsequently left Fernandes out of the starting line-up against Bournemouth, insisting the decision was based on football considerations.

Chelsea clash presents another major test

United face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, with Carrick seeking an immediate response from his players.

The fixture begins a demanding period that also includes matches against Roma, Aston Villa and Liverpool.

Although Carrick remains in charge, the club has not publicly guaranteed his position beyond the upcoming match.

Key Points

  • Manchester United have reportedly decided against immediately dismissing Carrick.
  • Senior officials discussed his future after the 3–0 Bournemouth defeat.
  • United sit 16th with seven points from eight Premier League games.
  • Eddie Howe, Julian Nagelsmann and Antonio Conte have been linked with the job.
  • Carrick is preparing for Saturday's trip to Chelsea.

What's Next?

Manchester United visit Chelsea on Saturday, 31 October, with kick-off at 12.30pm GMT.

Carrick will hope to end United's eight-match winless run, although further poor results could intensify the debate over his future.

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