Michael Carrick Sacked by Manchester United

Manchester United have sacked Michael Carrick, the club great who had been in charge of the first team. The decision follows a run of results that left his position increasingly precarious and turned supporters firmly against him.

The breaking point was a 4-1 home defeat to Como, a result that prompted open criticism from the stands. A group of about 100 fans stayed behind after the final whistle to demand change, and Carrick went to speak with them directly. Afterwards, he said the problems "stop with me" and accepted responsibility for the way the team had played.

Carrick's exit reflects how quickly the mood around Old Trafford has shifted. A former midfielder who won the Premier League and Champions League during his playing career, he was welcomed back with affection, but results and performances failed to match the expectations placed on him. Reaction to the decision has been split between those who felt the change was overdue and those who believed the club had let a loyal servant go too quickly.

Fans and pundits are now turning their attention to who takes charge next and what the club's plan looks like from here.