Michael Carrick to stay in charge of Man Utd for Chelsea trip

Michael Carrick will remain in charge of Manchester United for Saturday's trip to Chelsea after the club's hierarchy decided against a managerial change, according to BBC Sport and The Telegraph, both citing United sources.

The 45-year-old took training at Carrington on Tuesday morning, two days after a 3-0 home defeat by Bournemouth left United just above the relegation zone and without a win in eight matches in all competitions.

No change for now

Director of football Jason Wilcox and chief executive Omar Berrada held talks at the training ground on Monday, with The Telegraph reporting that co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe joined by video link. The decision was taken not to act, and BBC Sport's sources say Carrick will be given a chance to turn results around beyond the Chelsea game.

"Michael and the players will have the opportunity to turn the situation around," a United source told The Telegraph. "Everyone is focused on preparing the team for Saturday and showing our response on the pitch."

How the pressure built

Carrick took interim charge in January after Ruben Amorim's departure and was given the permanent job in May, having led United to a third-place finish and Champions League qualification. He signed a two-year deal.

This season has gone badly wrong. United have won one of their first eight Premier League matches, and the run has been overshadowed by public criticism from inside the squad. Lisandro Martínez criticised the club's board after the 2-0 Champions League defeat at Atlético Madrid, and captain Bruno Fernandes questioned Carrick's tactics after the 4-1 loss at Como.

Fernandes was then dropped to the bench and stayed there as Bournemouth won 3-0 at Old Trafford. Supporters chanted Carrick's name at full time before booing the players. "It wasn't a farewell from me," Carrick told Sky Sports afterwards.

What happens next

BBC Sport reports that United have explored possible replacements, with former Newcastle manager Eddie Howe and former Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann both considered, and Aston Villa's Unai Emery admired at the club. The Telegraph says succession planning is expected to continue behind the scenes.

After Chelsea, United host Roma in the Champions League next Tuesday.

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