Manchester United’s hierarchy have reportedly held crisis talks over Michael Carrick’s future after the side’s 3-0 loss to Bournemouth on Sunday (October 25).

Following United’s embarrassing 4-1 defeat to Como in midweek, Carrick would have been hoping for a response from his players, but his side delivered anything but as Bournemouth ran out convincing winners thanks to strikes from Rayan, Marcus Tavernier and Evanilson.

The defeat leaves United without a league win since August and in 16th place in the Premier League ahead of the trip to Chelsea on October 31.

INEOS take action over Michael Carrick’s future

As reported by The Guardian, United are actively considering his dismissal, with the expectation within the club that he will be sacked in the coming days.

As things stand, former Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe and ex-Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann are the frontrunners to potentially replace Carrick at United, with Antonio Conte and Unai Emery also linked.

However, the pair are less likely to take on the mantle at United, with the Italian playing down reports last week.

Reports suggest Emery would be too costly, with Villa likely to demand £20million in compensation.

“My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage,” Conte wrote on Instagram last week.

“I have read reports of financial demands and requests for full control that I have supposedly already made to the clubs mentioned, as well as reservations about what has been described as my ‘strong personality’. These reports are unfounded.

“Should a concrete opportunity arise, that will be the time to hold discussions with the club concerned and jointly consider the terms of a potential agreement, with due regard for both parties’ needs and the qualities and approach that define my work as a manager.”

If Carrick is sacked, he will be the third permanent manager to be dismissed since INEOS took charge of football operations.

Sporting director Jason Wilcox reportedly wants Howe to replace Carrick due to his extensive managerial experience in the Premier League and Champions League.

Nagelsmann is highly regarded by Christopher Vivell, United’s head of recruitment, although Wilcox’s opinion may influence Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who will make the final decision.

What did Michael Carrick say about his future?

Carrick appeared to wave towards United’s supporters after the match, with many suggesting this was a farewell gesture.

“It wasn’t a farewell from me,” Carrick said on Sky Sports.

“I have mixed emotions. I feel for my players; they’re going through a tough spell. Some of it we can help with; in some situations, things unravel and the boys are feeling it at the moment.

“I have mixed emotions about the supporters responding in that way. To have that connection with them brings mixed emotions. It’ll take a bit of time to digest, but I certainly appreciate their support.

“The situation is where we are, and we haven’t had results or performances that have been good enough.”

The United boss also revealed that he had a short conversation with chief executive Omar Berrada and Wilcox after the match.

“It was just a brief conversation, as always after a game, but nothing out of the ordinary,” he added. “I will see what happens. I totally understand the situation.

“I’m not expecting anything in particular, to be honest. I am carrying on as normal. I love this place. I’ll always do what I feel is going to be the best for the football club, whatever decision is made on anything, really. So that’s kind of it. You know, I’m not expecting anything either way.”