Monaco summit to decide Carrick's fate as Man Utd weigh sacking head coach

Michael Carrick’s future as Manchester United head coach will be decided 800 miles from Old Trafford at a pre‑planned Monaco summit on Wednesday, where chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are expected to recommend his dismissal to owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Why Monaco, and why now?

The meeting was already in the diary as a regular catch‑up between senior executives and Ratcliffe, whose home and Ineos offices are in Monaco. Sources stress the location was not chosen because of Carrick’s situation, but it has become the most important item on the agenda.

United’s decision to sack previous managers was not made in Monaco: Ruben Amorim was dismissed 19 hours after an explosive press conference following a 1–1 draw at Leeds in January, while Erik ten Hag’s exit followed a meeting at Ineos HQ in London.

What we know about the recommendation

United stood by Carrick after the 3–0 home defeat to Bournemouth on 25 October, hoping the international break would allow a proper assessment. But a 3–2 comeback win over Roma, a 2–0 loss at Chelsea, and a 4–4 draw with Aston Villa—where United conceded twice inside five minutes—have led Berrada and Wilcox to conclude a change is needed.

United have conceded 30 goals in 15 games this season (19 in 10 league matches), and sit 18th in the relegation zone with eight points from 10 games—their lowest position after 10 games in 40 years.

Is the recommendation likely to be accepted?

The assumption is yes. If Ratcliffe were to overrule Berrada and Wilcox, it would raise serious questions about their own futures. The Glazer family—six of the 12 current directors—would need to sign off any decision, with the chairman holding a casting vote if required.

A final verdict may not come until Thursday, with Carrick and the club in limbo until official confirmation.

Who could replace Carrick?

If the discussions go as anticipated, replacing Carrick becomes the next priority. Mauricio Pochettino is a leading contender and is keen on the job, though he currently manages the United States and has a $10m (£7.5m) release clause.

Other names in the frame include Eddie Howe (available, £3m compensation to Newcastle), Antonio Conte (keen, Serie A winner with Napoli), Julian Nagelsmann (out of work after Germany’s World Cup exit), and Kieran McKenna (former United coach, though seen as less experienced).

Carrick’s immediate schedule

Carrick continues to work as normal until told otherwise, taking training at Carrington on Tuesday and Wednesday before the squad disperses for international duty. He is expected to return on 17 November to prepare for the trip to Liverpool on 22 November.