Manchester United are holding discussions about the expected sacking of Michael Carrick. Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox arrived at the club's Carrington training complex on Monday morning. Intriguingly, Bruno Fernandes also arrived at Carrington even though it is a day off for the squad.
Fernandes was dropped against Bournemouth after he questioned Carrick's tactics after the 4-1 thrashing by Como on Wednesday but he did not come on in the latest drubbing. The 32-year-old did not warm up until the 58th minute and received a mixed reception from supporters. The only other players who turned up on Monday are injured and it is understood the club captain was there to receive treatment.
The United hierarchy held internal talks about the club's next move on Sunday night but are yet to thrash out a compensation package with Carrick's agent. Carrick spoke briefly with Berrada and Wilcox after the team's dismal surrender to Bournemouth at Old Trafford and then headed home. Berrada was abused as he boarded the vehicle that ferried his family away from the stadium.
United players and staff almost always have a day off the day after a game and that has not changed despite a sixth defeat in 12 games.
Julian Nagelsmann and Eddie Howe have both been sounded out as possible replacements for Carrick but United have still not made a formal approach for Antonio Conte. Conte was in the UK last month and indicated on Friday he would be receptive "should a concrete opportunity arise" but United have doubts about the Italian. Howe, out of work since he left Newcastle in July, has been tracking United's recent plight amid the possibility that the club will make him an offer. Former United sporting director Dan Ashworth and performance advisor Sir Dave Brailsford, viewed as two allies of Howe, left two seasons ago.
Man Utd ratings vs Bournemouth
Manchester United hit a new low for the season, if that's possible, with the 3-0 loss to Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
Michael Carrick stuck Bruno Fernandes on the bench - supposedly for 'football reasons only' - and kept him there for the whole game. So how did those who did play get on - and were there any shining lights on another stormy afternoon in Manchester? Find out how SunSport's Katherine Walsh rated and slated United's flops right here.
United director of recruitment Christopher Vivell held meetings at the club's Carrington training complex with visitors on Friday and worked with Nagelsmann at the Red Bull group. Nagelsmann, 39, would be keen on the United job after his disastrous stint as Germany coach ended in the summer. Vivell has felt marginalised at United due to the growing influence of Wilcox, who was loudly abused during the Bournemouth match. It is unclear whether Vivell, who joined United in the summer of 2024, would have significant sway on such a critical decision.
