Football

Michael Carrick Reaffirms Loyalty to Manchester United Following Departure

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Nov 14, 2026, 08:43 IST

Former Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick has expressed his continued support for the club after his dismissal, as Mauricio Pochettino is confirmed as his successor at Old Trafford.

Michael Carrick Reaffirms Loyalty to Manchester United Following Departure

Michael Carrick has publicly reaffirmed his enduring commitment to Manchester United, wishing the club “nothing but success” just one day after his tenure as manager came to an end. The 45-year-old, who previously enjoyed a decorated playing career at Old Trafford, shared a heartfelt message on social media, underscoring his deep-rooted affection for the institution despite the difficult circumstances surrounding his departure.

The former England midfielder’s exit follows a challenging run of form that left the club struggling in the Premier League relegation zone. Having secured only one victory in their opening 10 league fixtures, the club’s leadership opted for a change in direction, officially appointing Mauricio Pochettino as the new permanent manager on Friday. Pochettino, who has previously managed Tottenham, Chelsea, and Paris Saint-Germain, currently serves as the head coach of the USA national team.

A Legacy of Service and Gratitude

Carrick’s time at the helm began with promise after he stepped into the interim role following the departure of Ruben Amorim in January. His initial success in guiding the team to Champions League qualification earned him a two-year permanent contract. Reflecting on his time in the dugout, Carrick expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead a club that has defined much of his professional life.

“I’ve had the immense privilege of leading Manchester United, the football club that I love,” Carrick wrote in his statement. He acknowledged the unique weight of the position, noting that the role carries a responsibility to uphold the specific culture, values, and behaviors established over the club's long history. He emphasized that these elements were his primary source of inspiration during his time as manager.

Looking Toward the Future

Despite the recent downturn in results, Carrick remains a popular figure among the Old Trafford faithful, largely due to his contribution to the team's numerous triumphs under Sir Alex Ferguson. In his farewell message, he paid tribute to the supporters, describing them as a “special, rare breed,” and thanked his coaching staff and the players for their efforts during his tenure.

Looking ahead, Carrick signaled his intention to transition back to the role of a supporter. “I’ll be right there with you from now on, watching from the sidelines, cheering the lads on,” he stated. As Manchester United prepares for the Pochettino era, the club will be looking to reverse its current league standing and rediscover the form that defined much of its history.