Here’s what every Man Utd player has said about Michael Carrick leaving, including Bruno Fernandes’ reaction so far.
Several Manchester United players have already shared their thoughts after the club announced on Thursday morning that head coach Michael Carrick had been let go.
The club said it was a very tough decision to part ways with Carrick, who had a two-year contract after stepping in as interim head coach last season. He is set to be replaced by Mauricio Pochettino, who will leave his job as the manager of the United States men’s national team (USMNT) to take over at Old Trafford. Reports say Pochettino will finish his current commitments with the USMNT, including a two-game CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final against Haiti during the international break, before moving.
Here’s how some players reacted to Carrick’s exit:
Most of the first-team squad were away on international duty and playing on Thursday night, but several players still took time to pay tribute to Carrick.
Former captain Harry Maguire, who recently signed a new one-year deal with United, was the first to respond with a post on Instagram. He shared a photo of himself with Carrick and wrote, “Will always be a legend. Respect. Thank you.”
Midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, who became a key part of the team under Carrick, posted a photo of them hugging with a heart emoji, saying, “Thank you for everything, boss.”
Shea Lacey, praised by Carrick for his important role in United’s recent 3-2 win over Roma, shared a photo of them hugging and wrote, “Thank you for everything boss. I wish you all the best for the future,” with a heart and prayer emoji.
Tyler Fletcher, who made his Premier League debut with Carrick’s help, simply wrote, “Thank you for everything.” Patrick Dorgu, who scored in the final game of Carrick’s time in charge, added, “Thank you coach and good luck for the future.”
Joshua Zirkzee shared a heart emoji and a photo with Carrick on his Instagram Story. Carlos Baleba, the last player signed under Carrick, wrote, “Thank you for everything gaffer,” with a heart emoji.
Defender Ayden Heaven said, “Thank you for the opportunities boss and good luck for future.” Later on Thursday, forward Bryan Mbeumo also thanked Carrick: “Thank you for everything, coach.”
Even captain Bruno Fernandes, who had criticized Carrick’s tactics after a Champions League defeat last month, shared a photo of them shaking hands with the message: “Thanks for everything, boss.”
According to The Athletic, Pochettino has already agreed to a two-and-a-half year deal and could be announced as the new head coach as soon as Friday morning. However, he will only join Manchester United after managing the USMNT’s two matches against Haiti, with the second leg on Tuesday. Pochettino’s long-time assistant Jesus Perez will come with him, and he is expected to lead his first game when Manchester United faces Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.