3 dismal performances of Michael Carrick's Manchester United this season
What's the story
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick is on the verge of being sacked. United are considering letting Carrick go with his side currently in the Premier League relegation zone. Mauricio Pochettino, the current head coach of the United States men's national team, is set to replace Carrick. United have played 15 matches across competitions this season (W3 D5 L7). We look at three dismal United performances under Carrick this season.
#1
Como 4-1 Man United (Champions League)
On October 21, United suffered a humiliating 4-1 defeat against Como in Matchweek 3 of the UEFA Champions League.
The defeat came as United struggled to match the intensity and quality of their opponents, with their midfield and defense being particularly vulnerable.
As per Opta, Como completed 594 passes versus United, recording the most by a team in a Champions League game against the latter since Barcelona in April 2019 (725).
#2
Man United 0-3 Bournemouth (Premier League)
A couple of days after the Como humbling, Carrick's men were trounced by Bournemouth in Matchweek 8 of the Premier League 2026-27 season.
Carrick, who dropped skipper Bruno Fernandes to the bench, saw the Cherries win the clash 3-0.
Several chances went begging before Rayan handed the visitors a deserved lead in the 38th minute after a set-piece with Justin Kluivert delivering the ball.
Minutes later, Bournemouth were 2-0 ahead. Leny Yoro's slip saw Marcus Tavernier score.
In the 2nd half, Evanilson scored Bournemouth's third.
#3
Man United 0-1 Manchester City (Premier League)
Erling Haaland's controversial goal led Manchester City to a 1-0 victory over rivals United in Matchweek 4 of the Premier League back in September.
The match, played at Old Trafford, saw Phil Foden controversially sent off in the first half after retaliating against Fernandes.
Despite being a man down, City's resilience paid off when Haaland scored the winner in the 60th minute.
United hit the post twice but never quite threatened their arch-rivals.