David de Gea has sent a cryptic message involving Michael Carrick as the Manchester United head coach faces mounting uncertainty over his future.

The former United goalkeeper spent seven seasons playing alongside Carrick, with the pair enjoying some of the club’s most successful years together.

De Gea arrived from Atletico Madrid in 2011, establishing himself as United’s first-choice goalkeeper while Carrick remained a vital presence in midfield.

They helped Sir Alex Ferguson secure his final Premier League title in 2013, before winning the FA Cup in 2016 and Europa League in 2017.

Their connection continued when Carrick moved into coaching, with De Gea featuring throughout his unbeaten three-match spell as caretaker manager in 2021.

Now, however, Carrick faces arguably his greatest challenge at Old Trafford.

After guiding United to third place and Champions League qualification last season, the 45-year-old has overseen a disastrous start to the new campaign.

United have won just two of their opening 12 matches across all competitions, with their winless run now stretching to eight games.

Last week’s 4-1 Champions League humiliation against Como was followed by Sunday’s 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth, leaving United 16th in the Premier League.

Many expected Carrick to be dismissed on Monday, with crisis talks scheduled between senior club officials.

However, no dismissal has been confirmed and uncertainty remains over whether Carrick will lead Tuesday’s training session.

Against that backdrop, De Gea has now posted a photograph of himself alongside Carrick during their playing days at United.

The Spaniard shared the image on his official X account, accompanied by just one emoji: 🧬.

The DNA symbol could be interpreted as a reference to their shared Manchester United identity, particularly given the difficult circumstances surrounding Carrick.

De Gea provided no further explanation, although the timing has raised eyebrows as his former teammate fights to keep his job.

🧬 https://t.co/p8yfUdQcwv

— David de Gea (@D_DeGea) October 26, 2026