Carrick stays on as United face Bournemouth

Michael Carrick will remain in charge of Manchester United for Sunday’s Premier League match against Bournemouth, according to reports from Metro and The Independent ^[1][2]. The decision comes after a 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League, which has intensified scrutiny on the former midfielder’s tactics.

Captain Bruno Fernandes publicly criticised Carrick’s approach, particularly the lack of pressing, following the humiliating loss in Italy ^[2]. This marks the second major backlash in recent weeks, after defender Lisandro Martinez had criticised sporting director Jason Wilcox just a week prior.

Despite United’s poor form—only seven points from seven Premier League games and just two wins all season—the club has opted for continuity, describing the situation as ‘business as usual’ ^[1]. The squad was given a day off on Thursday after returning from Italy in the early hours, but players are set to return to Carrington on Friday for training ^[2].

Carrick is scheduled to hold his regular pre-match press conference at 1:30pm on Friday afternoon, a sign the club intends to maintain stability ahead of the Bournemouth game ^[1][2]. The upcoming fixtures include a trip to Chelsea on 31 October, a Champions League home match against Roma, and a Premier League clash with Aston Villa before the international break.

While Carrick remains in charge for now, Manchester United have begun identifying potential replacements. Former Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is reportedly interested, while Antonio Conte is said to be keen, though concerns remain over his compatibility with the club’s structure ^[1]. Julian Nagelsmann, recently sacked by Germany after their World Cup exit, is also linked, with odds of 7/1 available for a move to Old Trafford.