Man United players 'wanted Michael Carrick out' after 'breakdown' - expert

Michael Carrick faces dismissal after Manchester United's worst Premier League start, with players reportedly ignoring his instructions amid a breakdown in communication.

Michael Carrick is set to be relieved of his duties as Manchester United manager in the coming hours, with the club working on finding a replacement. The 45-year-old has overseen the Red Devils' worst ever Premier League start, winning just one of their opening 10 league games.

Former scout Bryan King told Football Insider that players have been ignoring Carrick's instructions, suggesting either a breakdown in communication or that the squad wanted him out. King acknowledged that while Carrick was not backed sufficiently in the summer transfer window, the underlying issue is that Manchester United's squad lacks the quality needed to challenge for the title.

Pochettino, Nagelsmann and Eddie Howe are among the leading contenders to replace Carrick. The new manager will inherit a squad with significant gaps: no consistent striker following Benjamin Sesko's injury, a midfield lacking energy despite summer investment, and a defence without reliable full-back options or settled centre-back partnerships.