Manchester United have sacked head coach Michael Carrick after a disastrous start to the Premier League campaign left the club in the relegation zone.

The club confirmed the decision on Thursday, ending Carrick's tenure following a run of poor results that has plunged the 20-time English champions into one of the most difficult periods in their recent history.

In a statement, United said: “After a disappointing start to the season, the club has come to the extremely difficult conclusion that a change is necessary in order to achieve our ambitions.”

The club, however, paid tribute to Carrick's contribution, insisting he would always remain an important figure in its history.

“Michael is, and always will be, a Manchester United legend. Just as he did as a player, he has conducted himself with the highest standards of dedication and professionalism throughout his time back with the club.

“His leadership and achievements last season will always be fondly remembered.”

United added: “The club intends to appoint a permanent successor as quickly as possible.”

The decision follows an assessment of the team's performances by the club's hierarchy, with director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada central to discussions before a final decision was made by co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Carrick's final match in charge was Sunday's extraordinary 4-4 draw against Aston Villa at Old Trafford, a result that left United 18th in the standings with eight points from 10 matches.

United twice recovered from two-goal deficits but were unable to secure a victory that could have eased the pressure on their manager.

The result extended the club's winless Premier League run to eight matches and left them facing the possibility of a relegation battle.

Carrick had insisted he was not considering stepping down despite mounting criticism over his position.

Speaking after the Villa draw, he told Sky Sports: “I'm not,” when asked whether he was considering his future.

“I'm quite clear with what direction the club needs to go in, and it's got to win games. We haven't won enough games, but I expect to move forward and keep working on the things that we've been working on.”

The former midfielder had initially earned widespread praise after taking charge in January following the departure of Ruben Amorim.

He guided United to third place in the 2025/26 Premier League season, winning 12 of his final 17 matches and securing Champions League qualification.

That impressive run convinced the club to hand him the permanent position in May on a two-year contract.

However, the new campaign proved considerably more difficult, with defensive mistakes, inconsistent performances and an inability to collect victories undermining his authority.

According to BBC Sport, United's hierarchy had been reluctant to rush into a decision despite the team's poor results, with the international break providing an opportunity to review the situation.

Sky Sports had also reported that the club was considering alternatives, with Mauricio Pochettino emerging as a leading candidate.

The former Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea manager, who currently coaches the United States national team, had reportedly reached an agreement in principle to take over should United part ways with Carrick.

Sky Sports reported that Pochettino had a release clause worth approximately £7 million in his contract.

United have not officially confirmed his appointment, saying only that they intend to secure a permanent successor as quickly as possible.

Carrick's departure adds to the managerial instability that has troubled Old Trafford since the retirement of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013.

The club will now be under pressure to appoint a successor capable of reviving its fortunes and steering the team away from the relegation zone.