Manchester United have decided to stick with Michael Carrick despite a dismal run of form, giving the manager another chance to turn things around.
Carrick’s future was plunged into doubt after Sunday’s 3-0 humbling at home to Bournemouth, which left United 16th in the Premier League – just one point above the relegation zone with 7 points from 8 games.
The defeat extended United’s winless run to 8 matches in all competitions. The Red Devils have won just 2 of 12 games this season, marking their worst start to a league season in 40 years.
But according to BBC Sport, Sky Sports and Press Association, Carrick will remain in charge for Saturday’s crucial trip to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
The 45-year-old reported to Carrington on Tuesday morning and took training as normal, sources told BBC.
Senior officials including Chief Executive Omar Berrada and Director of Football Jason Wilcox held crisis talks on Monday, with co-chairmen Joel and Avram Glazer and minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe joining via conference call. Names including Eddie Howe, Julian Nagelsmann and Antonio Conte were linked, but the hierarchy decided to give Carrick time.
Carrick was handed a two-year deal in May after reviving United as caretaker following Ruben Amorim’s exit, guiding the club from mid-table to third and Champions League qualification.
The pressure had intensified after a 4-1 Champions League defeat at Como last week – after which captain Bruno Fernandes publicly criticised tactics and was dropped for the Bournemouth game.
Despite the results, fans still showed support for Carrick – chanting his name after the Bournemouth loss while booing players and hierarchy off the pitch.
United face Chelsea on Saturday, October 31, then host Roma in Champions League and Aston Villa in Premier League before the November international break.
For now, Carrick lives to fight another day.
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