Carrick to remain in charge for Man United’s Chelsea trip

Michael Carrick will remain Manchester United manager for Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Chelsea, despite mounting pressure following a disappointing run of results.

Carrick oversaw training on Tuesday as United prepared to visit Stamford Bridge, looking to end an eight-match winless run in all competitions.

United hierarchy give Carrick another chance

Sunday’s 3-0 home defeat by Bournemouth intensified scrutiny of Carrick, whose side sit just one place above the Premier League relegation zone.

United’s leadership have reportedly explored potential replacements, with former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and ex-Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann among the candidates considered.

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery is also admired by the club, although his existing contract would complicate any attempt to appoint the Spaniard.

Despite the discussions, sources indicate Carrick will remain in charge against Chelsea and have an opportunity to improve the team’s performances.

The former Middlesbrough manager initially took interim charge in January following Ruben Amorim’s departure. He was appointed permanently in May after guiding United to Champions League qualification with a strong end to the campaign, which saw them finish third.

However, United have struggled this season, winning just one of their first eight Premier League matches.

Players and board face growing criticism

Tensions have also emerged within the club following disappointing European results. Defender Lisandro Martinez criticised the board over investment after a 2-0 defeat by Atletico Madrid, while captain Bruno Fernandes questioned Carrick’s tactics following a 4-1 loss to Como.

Fernandes was subsequently left on the bench for the Bournemouth defeat and did not feature.

Carrick received vocal support from sections of the Old Trafford crowd after Sunday’s loss, with supporters chanting his name as he headed towards the tunnel before turning their frustration towards the players.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Carrick said the supporters’ reaction had left him with mixed emotions but insisted it was not a farewell.

“The situation is where we are and we haven’t had results or performances that have been good enough,” he said.

Carrick was also at United’s training ground on Monday, despite the first team being given the day off. Director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada were pictured arriving at the facility as uncertainty continued over the manager’s future.