Jamie Carragher believes Michael Carrick may privately want Manchester United to end his tenure, with the club’s managerial situation increasingly difficult to sustain ahead of Saturday’s visit to Chelsea.
Carrick remains in charge despite United’s run of eight matches without a win, which has left them 16th in the Premier League and only one point above the relegation zone.
Speaking on Stick to Football, Carragher suggested that Carrick may feel unable to continue in the role while the club considers whether to replace him.
“I think he can never say publicly, but I think Michael Carrick would want to put out of his misery. I really do,” Carragher said.
The former Liverpool defender also questioned how Carrick could retain authority in the dressing room if both the manager and his players believe his departure is imminent.
“Those players know that Michael Carrick’s not going to be there in two or three weeks. He knows it, they know it, everybody, we know it…” he added.
Manchester United’s uncertainty over Carrick’s future
Carragher has also been reported as describing Carrick’s position as “untenable” after United’s 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth.
Club executives discussed the manager’s future following that result and had been prepared to dismiss him, but uncertainty over a successor has delayed a final decision. Carrick will therefore lead United into the Chelsea fixture.
His authority has also been tested by a public dispute involving captain Bruno Fernandes. Fernandes questioned United’s tactics after the 4-1 defeat by Como and was subsequently dropped for the Bournemouth match.
The pair have since held clear-the-air talks, with Fernandes reportedly assuring Carrick that he remains committed to helping turn the club’s results around.
That has eased one immediate tension, but the wider uncertainty remains. Carrick knows another defeat could alter his position, while the players are aware that Manchester United are considering alternatives.
The Chelsea match could consequently prove a pivotal test for Carrick. Victory may give him more time, while another heavy loss would strengthen Carragher’s view that the manager’s departure is already expected by everyone involved.
