MANCHESTER: Manchester United’s top brass are holding talks about the possibility of sacking Michael Carrick after the humiliating 0-3 defeat to Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
United CEO Omar Berrada and Director of Football Jason Wilcox arrived at the Carrington training centre today, despite most of the players being given the day off.
Team captain Bruno Fernandes was also present at Carrington for treatment, although the first squad did not train.
Fernandes was left out of the starting line-up against Bournemouth after reportedly questioning Carrick’s tactics following the 1-4 defeat to Como in midweek.
He, however, remained on the bench and was not used in the latest defeat.
It is understood that United’s hierarchy held internal discussions on Sunday night about the next steps, but they have yet to reach an agreement on a compensation package with Carrick’s agent.
Carrick had a brief chat with Berrada and Wilcox after the defeat to Bournemouth before leaving the stadium.
The defeat was United’s sixth in 12 games in all competitions and increased the pressure on Carrick who now faces the possibility of losing his job.
Several candidates have been considered as replacements, including Julian Nagelsmann and Eddie Howe. Both are reportedly being monitored by United, while former Tottenham and Chelsea manager Antonio Conte is also open to the possibility of a move if a concrete offer is made.
However, United reportedly have reservations about appointing Conte and have so far not made an official approach to the Italian coach.
Howe, who left Newcastle United in July, is said to be monitoring developments at Old Trafford following the possibility of United offering him the position.
Meanwhile, Nagelsmann has the support of United’s Director of Recruitment, Christopher Vivell, who previously worked with him at Red Bull.
Nagelsmann, 39, is reportedly interested in taking over at United after leaving his post as Germany coach last summer.
In a related development, Carrick’s future is increasingly in question after United only won two of their previous 11 matches and are now facing great pressure following the team’s poor performance.
Carrick previously insisted that he did not expect to be sacked and wanted to continue with his duties as usual.
“I didn’t expect anything, to be honest. I’m going to carry on as usual and I love this club,” he said after the defeat to Bournemouth.