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Opinion

Carrick clings on as United's decision-makers enter self-preservation mode

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So, Michael Carrick has been given a stay of execution, but needs a miraculous turnaround to see out November, let alone the remainder of the season. ALEX CROOK looks at what on earth this means for United.

27.10.26 6 Min Read Alex Crook

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick at the end of the Premier League match between Fulham and Manchester United at Craven Cottage, London, UK on 20 September 2026.

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Carrick PSI
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Carrick to remain in charge for Chelsea match

Michael Carrick will remain in position as Manchester United head coach for the club’s trip to Chelsea, The1878 understands.

27.10.26News
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WAYNE BARTON ON MONDAY: Michael Carrick is the latest victim of Manchester United leadership

A few years ago, I was present at a meeting which included a small number of high-ranking Old Trafford officials. During that meeting, I was speaking about the history of the club, and when I mentioned Harry Gregg, one of those officials stopped me to ask who I was talking about.

26.10.26Opinion
The 1878 Match Reaction Poster
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Manchester United humiliated by Bournemouth – and Carrick will carry the can

In the 1980s, a defeat to Bournemouth was the most embarrassing Manchester United suffered all decade. WAYNE BARTON looked on as history repeated itself on another dreadful showing from United.

26.10.26News

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Opinion

Manchester United’s ticketing crisis: how INEOS risked a revolt among supporters

30.08.269 Min ReadWayne Barton

From season ticket suspensions to supporter resignations, tensions at Manchester United continue to rise. WAYNE BARTON explores why this summer has become a defining test of the club’s relationship with its fans.

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Diogo Dalot (2) of Manchester United interacts with Carlos Baleba (20) of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford, Manchester, UK on 10 October 2026.
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Michael Carrick will be the fall guy, but the spotlight must turn on United's underperforming players

It was a gesture that painted a thousand words. A sodden Michael Carrick stood arms outstretched, apologising to those hardy few in the away end who had stuck it out to the bitter end. ALEX CROOK looks at what - and who - comes next for United as Carrick's race looks run.

21.10.26News
Carrick PSI
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Como capitulation leaves Carrick on brink

Manchester United slumped to a catastrophic defeat at Como, their heaviest European defeat of the 21st century, to leave Michael Carrick under severe pressure as head coach, and putting the club on the brink of significant change once again. WAYNE BARTON reflects on a dismal night for Carrick and United.

21.10.26News
Bruno Fernandes (8) of Manchester United during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford, Manchester, UK on 10 October 2026.
Members
WAYNE BARTON ON MONDAY: Is the balance all wrong at Manchester United?

In the final minutes of the draw against Tottenham last week, Bruno Fernandes hoofed the ball high towards the North Stand instead of picking a pass in the attack. It seemed absurd and provoked a large groan from all at Old Trafford. It's left WAYNE BARTON wondering if the balance is all wrong at United.

19.10.26Opinion
Ex England football captain & Newcastle United player Alan Shearer during the BMW PGA Championship Celebrity Pro-Am Day at the Wentworth Club, Virginia Water, United Kingdom on 25 May 2016. Photo by Simon Davies.

History

How Jack Walker blocked Alan Shearer’s agreed move to Manchester United

25.08.265 Min ReadWayne Barton

Alan Shearer was on the verge of becoming a Manchester United player in 1996. WAYNE BARTON explores Martin Edwards' revelatory account of how contract terms were agreed, until Blackburn chairman Jack Walker stepped in to redirect England's star striker to Newcastle United instead.

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