Manchester United keep Michael Carrick in charge for Chelsea trip

Michael Carrick will remain Manchester United manager for the trip to Chelsea on Saturday 31 October, following two days of discussions after defeat by Bournemouth. United are 16th in the Premier League.

BBC Sport reports that the club have given Carrick and his squad an opportunity to reverse their results, without setting a timescale. Senior figures believe the players are performing well below their capabilities and share responsibility.

How the decision emerged

By late Sunday 25 October, no final decision to dismiss Carrick had been reached. Supporters had directed their anger at the squad after the Bournemouth defeat at Old Trafford.

On Monday 26 October, chief executive Omar Berrada and technical director Jason Wilcox discussed the club’s next steps at Carrington. Carrick was also there, watching an Under-21s match behind closed doors. Captain Bruno Fernandes attended for treatment arranged in advance.

No announcement followed that evening. Carrick arrived at 7.30am on Tuesday 27 October to lead training. Four hours later, club sources confirmed he would manage the side at Stamford Bridge.

The pressure had increased after United lost 4–1 at Como on Wednesday 21 October. Fernandes publicly challenged Carrick’s tactics and the coaching staff’s response during that match. He was then an unused substitute against Bournemouth.

Three fixtures before the break

After Chelsea, United face Roma in the Champions League three days later, followed by Aston Villa in the Premier League before a two-week international break.

BBC Sport reports that United explored Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann as possible replacements. Antonio Conte is willing to discuss the role, but there has been no direct contact.

For supporters, the immediate fixture list will be overseen by the same manager. One player told BBC Sport: “The feeling is that we all want to put it right. Players, staff, everyone.”