Manchester United's decision to part ways with Michael Carrick has been followed by the revelation that Mauricio Pochettino is the club's top target to take over as head coach. The Argentine, currently in charge of the United States national team, has a $10m (£7m) release clause in his contract, which United are prepared to activate.
Carrick's Departure
Carrick's dismissal came after a poor run of results, with United second bottom of the Premier League and 17th in the Champions League table. The 45-year-old had been in charge for just 15 games after signing a two-year deal in the summer. Despite the disappointing start, Carrick conducted himself with dignity and leaves with his standing as a United great intact.
Sources indicate that Carrick's agent was contacted by chief executive Omar Berrada on Monday to inform him of a planned meeting with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe to discuss the head coach's future. A day later, director of football Jason Wilcox had a similar conversation with Carrick. It was communicated that a recommendation would be made, though it is unclear whether Carrick knew that recommendation would be his dismissal.
Pochettino's Release Clause
United were aware of Pochettino's release clause, and it is believed representatives of the Argentine informed the club. On Wednesday, Berrada contacted the US Soccer Federation to confirm the existence of the clause and United's intention to activate it. The news did not come as a surprise to the US federation, as Pochettino had been clear about his discussions with United and his desire to return to the Premier League.
While United want Pochettino in place as soon as possible, they are respectful of his commitments with the USA, who have two fixtures against Haiti, the second on 18 November. If Pochettino takes charge of that game, he is expected to be at United's Carrington headquarters on 19 November, four days before the Manchester derby against Liverpool.
Carrick's Tenure
Carrick was initially appointed on an interim basis following the sacking of Ruben Amorim in January and made a positive impact, winning 12 of his last 17 matches of the season. United liked his positive messaging and felt he brought calm to rocky waters. However, the season started poorly with a defeat at newly promoted Hull City, and results have spiralled downward since.
Following heavy defeats by Como and Bournemouth, United placed huge importance on the next three games against Chelsea, Roma and Aston Villa. It is understood that Carrick was told results and performances needed to improve. A defeat, a victory and a draw were not enough to save him, with a feeling that there was not enough progress, particularly in terms of team structure, as they conceded eight goals in that period.
There is some regret behind the scenes at United that the machinations leading to Carrick's departure were played out so publicly, but with a club of United's size, keeping such developments private is extremely difficult. The club feels they were as transparent with Carrick as they could be.
As United prepare for a new era under Pochettino, Carrick leaves with the gratitude of the fans and the respect of the football world.
