Carrick Sacked by Manchester United as Pochettino Lined Up

Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick as head coach, ending his time in charge of the first team and opening another search at Old Trafford.

The club's next move appears to be focused on Mauricio Pochettino, who is reported to be the preferred candidate to take over. The former Tottenham and Chelsea manager has been linked with the job for some time, and his name now sits at the top of the list as United look for a permanent figure to lead the squad.

Carrick's dismissal is the latest in a long run of managerial changes at United since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013. Each change has raised the same question for supporters: whether the club can settle on a coach with a clear long-term plan and the backing to see it through.

Until a formal announcement is made, the Pochettino move should be treated as reported rather than confirmed. Any appointment will be closely watched, both for its effect on the squad and for what it says about the direction the club wants to take.