Michael Carrick insisted he was “carrying on as normal” after Manchester United suffered a 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth on Sunday. However, the result has intensified pressure on the manager, with frustration growing among supporters at Old Trafford.
When asked whether he expected to remain in charge the following week, Carrick offered no guarantees and accepted responsibility for the club’s poor results.
“Of course, I take responsibility,” he said, adding that he would continue doing what he believed was best for Manchester United.
Manchester United Struggle as Results Worsen
Carrick guided Manchester United to third place last season after replacing Ruben Amorim, helping the club secure Champions League football. However, the team’s form has deteriorated this campaign.
United have won only twice in 12 matches across all competitions and have not recorded a Premier League victory since defeating Ipswich Town on August 30.
The defeat to Bournemouth left United with seven points from eight league matches, just one point above the relegation zone. It also marked their worst points return at this stage of a season since 1986-87.
Old Trafford Fans Express Frustration
Manchester United supporters displayed a giant banner reading “Standards” before half-time, featuring club legends Eric Cantona, Roy Keane and Bryan Robson.
Despite the disappointing performance, many fans continued to show support for Carrick, singing “It’s Carrick you know!” late in the match.
However, the atmosphere changed after the final whistle. Supporters directed loud boos towards the players, while thousands began leaving the stadium before the match ended.
Bournemouth fans also taunted Carrick with chants of “You’re getting sacked in the morning”, highlighting the growing uncertainty surrounding his position.
Ashley Young Questions Players’ Commitment
Former Manchester United winger Ashley Young suggested that the players were not responding adequately to their manager’s instructions.
Young said supporters continued to back Carrick because of his status as a club legend. However, he criticised the team’s lack of effort and unity.
Young said the players did not appear to be working together and suggested their performance gave the impression that they had given up.
Bruno Fernandes’ Absence Adds to the Pressure
Carrick’s decision to leave captain Bruno Fernandes on the bench further intensified scrutiny of the manager.
The decision came four days after the Portugal international publicly criticised United’s tactics following a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como.
Before Sunday’s match, Carrick described the omission as a “pure football” decision. Television cameras repeatedly showed Fernandes looking dismayed as United struggled against Bournemouth.
The visitors’ third goal highlighted United’s defensive problems. After losing possession high up the pitch, goalkeeper Senne Lammens rushed out of his area but misjudged a long ball, allowing Evanilson to score into an empty net.
The mistake capped a disorganised performance that left United supporters increasingly frustrated.
Harry Maguire Backs Carrick
Harry Maguire, who captained United for the match, insisted that the dressing room continued to support Carrick despite the poor results.
Maguire acknowledged that Carrick had helped turn the club’s fortunes around last season but admitted that the players needed to improve their performances.
He said the squad remained fully behind the manager and accepted that individuals were not performing well enough.
Carrick Thanks Supporters Amid Uncertainty
Carrick appeared emotional when discussing the supporters’ backing after the match. He admitted that the defeat and the club’s recent run of results had been difficult to accept.
He also rejected suggestions that his gesture towards the fans after the final whistle was a farewell, explaining that he simply wanted to show appreciation for their support.
Former Manchester United defender Gary Neville suggested that the fans’ chants in support of Carrick reflected their belief that a decision about his future might already be approaching.
Bournemouth manager Marco Rose also expressed sympathy for Carrick, acknowledging the difficulties managers face during challenging periods.
Carrick’s Future at Manchester United Remains Uncertain
Despite accepting responsibility for the defeat, Carrick declined to speculate about whether he would remain in charge in the coming days.
Manchester United’s poor form, growing fan frustration and concerns about the players’ performances have increased the scrutiny surrounding his position.
For now, Carrick says he will continue as normal. However, with results failing to improve, uncertainty over his future remains a major talking point at Old Trafford.