Manchester United Executives Meet in Monaco to Decide Michael Carrick's Future

LONDON, Nov 11 (OPA) — Manchester United powerbrokers met for a summit in Monaco on Wednesday as 45-year-old manager Michael Carrick continued working under mounting pressure. Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox flew to the south of France to present their recommendation to billionaire minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Club sources indicated that no final decision had been reached, with co-chairmen Joel and Avram Glazer also required to approve any dismissal. Old Trafford leadership intended to inform Carrick face to face, meaning official confirmation was not expected until Thursday.

Mauricio Pochettino has been identified as the clear candidate to take over, though buying the 54-year-old out of his contract with the United States national team would cost an estimated £7 million. Sacking Carrick would also push compensation payouts for coaching staff and executives over the last three years under Ineos past £30 million. United have already spent £22.7 million in severance since 2024, including £10.4 million to Erik ten Hag and £8.2 million following the departure of his successor.

Former United striker Teddy Sheringham criticized the team's performances following Sunday's chaotic 4-4 draw with Aston Villa, pointing to tactical confusion and individual defensive errors. Carrick's current backroom team includes Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, and former teammate Jonny Evans, though it remains unclear if assistants such as goalkeeper coach Craig Mawson would be retained under a new manager.

Pochettino is currently preparing the US national team for a CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final double-header against Haiti at their base south of Atlanta. However, the former Tottenham, Chelsea, and Southampton manager remains interested in a return to the Premier League. Carrick was handed a two-year contract only in May, but the team's alarming descent has placed his position in extreme jeopardy.