Michael Owen Questions Man Utd Board Over Potential Michael Carrick Sack Amid Past Coaching Trials

Manchester United have already cycled through a range of head coaches, including Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with the club now reportedly considering the future of current boss Michael Carrick. Former striker Michael Owen told GOAL that constant changes in management are not beneficial for the Red Devils.

The Long Shadow of Sir Alex Ferguson

After the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013, following a record-breaking 13th Premier League title, Manchester United faced an uphill battle to fill those shoes. Ferguson's 27-year reign saw domestic dominance and Champions League glory, capped by the historic Treble win in 1999.

Managerial Experiments at Old Trafford

Since Ferguson, United have tried numerous managers without long-term success. David Moyes lasted only eight months, while nobody has lasted three years since. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer came closest, managing 168 games. Carrick, initially interim, has overseen 17 matches and earned a two-year deal after securing a top-three finish and a return to European competition. Despite this, his position is reportedly under threat weeks later.

The club has experimented with established names like Mourinho and Louis van Gaal, former players such as Solskjaer and Carrick, and emerging talents like Ruben Amorim. Yet, the problems seem deeper than coaching alone, and sacking Carrick mid-season might do more harm than good.

Owen's Take on United’s Managerial Challenges

“They've tried absolutely everything. And the one time it's actually worked, him [Carrick] last season, got more points than any other manager, average points, etc. The one time when it actually has worked, why would you change things?”

“Just to keep chopping and changing, it's not a good look. It's not good for the club. It doesn't bring results. We've seen that for many, many years now.”

“Personally, I think you should let him grow. He's still quite a young manager, but he's already proven that he can go and pick up big, big results, and consistently. I would hate to see Manchester United being weak at board level and parting company.”

Owen points out the instability in management isn't helping the club and stresses that Carrick deserves more time despite recent struggles. He questions who else would step in and warns against frequent managerial switches.

Carrick Faces Critical Away Fixtures

Michael Carrick remains in charge following a 1-1 draw with 10-man Tottenham, but a tough run of away games could determine his fate. Upcoming fixtures include:

• Champions League: Atletico Madrid vs Manchester United on October 13, 2026, at 22:00
• Premier League: Leeds United vs Manchester United on October 18, 2026, at 16:00
• A European tie against Como, where Cesc Fabregas plays
• Premier League trip to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea on October 31, 2026

The results on the road will likely influence decisions on Carrick's future at Old Trafford.