Michael Carrick will remain in charge of Manchester United for their trip to Chelsea this weekend. Sources have told BBC Sport that the 45-year-old will be given the opportunity to turn things around at Old Trafford following a dismal start to the campaign. Carrick oversaw training on Tuesday morning, as United look to end a run of eight matches without a win in all competitions when they visit Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
Sunday's 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth at Old Trafford plunged Carrick's future into doubt, with United sitting one place above the relegation zone. It is understood United's hierarchy have explored the possibility of replacing Carrick, with ex-Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe and former Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann under consideration. But sources have told BBC Sport that the former Middlesbrough manager will not only take charge against Chelsea but will also be given a chance to turn the club's form around.
Carrick took interim charge in January following Ruben Amorim's departure and he was rewarded with the permanent job in May after securing Champions League qualification with an impressive run that resulted in them finishing third. But United's form has collapsed this term, with Carrick's side winning just one of their eight Premier League matches so far this season. Defender Lisandro Martinez criticised the club's board for a lack of investment following United's 2-0 defeat by Atletico Madrid in the Champions League earlier this month.
Captain Bruno Fernandes then took aim at Carrick's tactics following a humiliating 4-1 loss against Como in their next Champions League fixture. The Portuguese was dropped to the bench for Sunday's loss to Bournemouth, and remained an unused substitute. United supporters chanted Carrick's name as the former England international made his way to the tunnel after the match, but quickly directed boos at the players once Carrick had made his way off the pitch.
Carrick gestured towards the Stretford End as they chanted his name after the match. "It wasn't a farewell from me," Carrick said on Sky Sports. "I've mixed emotions, I'm feeling it for my players, they're going through a tough spell.
Some of it we can help, some of it the situation unravels and the boys are feeling it at the moment. "Mixed emotions for the supporters to respond in that way. To have that connection with the supporters it's mixed emotions, it'll take a bit of time to digest but I certainly appreciate their support.
Extract — continue reading at the source.
