Man Utd to axe Carrick after 3-0 Bournemouth thrashing

Manchester United are on the verge of sacking manager Michael Carrick following a humiliating 3-0 loss to Bournemouth, leaving the club just one point above the relegation zone after 12 games ^[1]. The defeat sparked furious boos from fans at Old Trafford, with Carrick’s future now hanging by a thread. Despite guiding the club to a third-place finish last season, Carrick’s tenure has unravelled amid a poor start to the 2026-27 campaign and a subdued transfer window.

Sources indicate that Eddie Howe, the former Newcastle United boss, is the leading candidate to replace Carrick ^[1]. Howe, 48, won the Carabao Cup and secured two Champions League qualifications during his five-year spell at St James’ Park ^[2]. He is reportedly open to returning to management with United, especially after stepping down from Newcastle in the summer.

Julian Nagelsmann, recently dismissed as Germany’s national team coach after a World Cup last-32 exit, is also high on United’s list ^[2]. The 39-year-old, who previously managed Bayern Munich, is available and has been linked with the role. Antonio Conte, out of work since leaving Napoli in June, is also interested and considered a strong contender.

Unai Emery, currently in charge of Aston Villa, is admired at Old Trafford but remains under contract until 2029, making a move unlikely ^[2]. Brighton boss Fabregas, meanwhile, has drawn attention after leading St Pauli to promotion and impressing at the Seagulls.

Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher have both called for Carrick’s dismissal, with Carragher stating the situation is ‘untenable’ and that Carrick may want to be relieved of his duties ^[1]. This claim has not been confirmed and is reported by one source only. Neville added that the club’s current state is a mess and that fans may be ‘disgusted’ by the decision, but it may be necessary.

United’s next fixture is a trip to Stamford Bridge to face Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea ^[1]. The club could appoint their eighth permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure in 2013 ^[2]. The story was first reported by Metro and BBC News.