Former Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has posted a heartfelt farewell message to the club's supporters on Instagram, expressing deep gratitude for the unwavering backing he received despite his dismissal following a wretched start to the 2026-27 Premier League season. The post, which quickly drew widespread attention, underscored the emotional bond Carrick maintains with a club he has been associated with for the better part of his adult life.

What Carrick Said

In a lengthy Instagram post, the 45-year-old former England midfielder described managing Manchester United as an honour he would carry with him always. 'I've had the immense privilege of leading Manchester United, the football club that I love. There are very few who get to live that and feel it, and for that I'm incredibly grateful,' Carrick wrote.

His most affecting words were directed at the club's supporters, whom he credited for standing firm even as results deteriorated. 'I want to say a big thank you to the supporters. I must say, you are a special, rare breed,' he said. 'I know we've not had the results lately, but you've shown me nothing but love and support in times when the easiest thing, and what most end up doing, would be to turn the other way. That means more than a win or two. That love never dies.'

He also thanked his coaching staff, behind-the-scenes employees, and players, wishing each of them well in their future endeavours.

Why Carrick Was Dismissed

Carrick was relieved of his duties after Manchester United managed just one win from their opening 10 Premier League matches of the 2026-27 campaign — a run of form that left the club adrift in the table. The Red Devils also suffered an early exit from the Carabao Cup, beaten by Brighton and Hove Albion. The cumulative pressure proved untenable for the club's hierarchy.

Carrick's Brief but Promising Tenure

Carrick had initially returned to Old Trafford in January as interim head coach before being awarded a permanent two-year contract in May. During that interim spell, he guided United to a third-place Premier League finish, winning 12 of their remaining 17 matches and registering the highest points tally in the division during that period — a run that earned him the full-time role and significant goodwill among supporters.

Notably, the contrast between that purple patch and the collapse that followed makes his exit all the more difficult to reconcile for many supporters who had backed him as a long-term appointment.

What Happens Next at Old Trafford

Manchester United have moved swiftly to fill the vacancy, appointing Mauricio Pochettino — formerly of Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea — as the club's new head coach. Pochettino is set to take charge from 18 November 2026, with the club hoping the Argentine brings the structural stability that has eluded them through yet another managerial transition.

Carrick, for his part, made clear his connection to the club will not end with his departure from the dugout. 'I want nothing but success for Manchester United. This club has been such a big part of my life, and that will never change. I'll always be proud to have played my part, and I'll always want the very best for it,' he wrote, adding: 'I'll be right there with you from now on, watching from the sidelines, cheering the lads on.'