Man United Managers: 7 in Five Years as Carrick Faces Exit

Manchester United have had seven different managers in five years, including permanent, interim and caretaker appointments. Now, Michael Carrick’s position is under serious scrutiny as the club considers its next move.

Manchester United have worked with seven different managers since November 2021, reflecting the frequent changes in leadership at Old Trafford.

The list includes permanent appointments, interim managers and caretaker coaches. Some stayed for months, while others took charge for only a few matches.

Now, Michael Carrick could become the latest casualty. His position is increasingly uncertain following United’s poor start to the 2026/27 season.

According to Sky Sports, the club is reviewing his future, although no final decision has been made.

Seven managers have taken charge since 2021

The managerial changes began with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, whose departure in November 2021 triggered a series of appointments.

Here are the seven individuals who have managed United during the period:

1. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (until November 2021): The Norwegian left his position after United’s 4-1 defeat to Watford. His departure ended a spell that included two consecutive top-three Premier League finishes.

The Premier League announced his departure on November 21, 2021.

2. Michael Carrick (November–December 2021): Carrick took temporary charge after Solskjaer’s departure. He oversaw three matches before leaving the role following the arrival of the next manager.

3. Ralf Rangnick (December 2021–May 2022): United appointed the German as interim manager. He managed the team until the end of the 2021/22 campaign before Erik ten Hag took over.

4. Erik ten Hag (2022–October 2024): The Dutchman won the Carabao Cup and FA Cup during his time at Old Trafford. However, poor league performances and an eighth-place finish in the 2023/24 season increased pressure on him.

United confirmed his departure in an official statement on October 28, 2024.

5. Ruud van Nistelrooy (October–November 2024): The former United striker served as caretaker manager after Ten Hag’s departure. He took charge of four matches before Ruben Amorim’s appointment.

6. Ruben Amorim (November 2024–January 2026): Amorim arrived from Sporting CP but struggled to establish consistent results. United ended his spell in January 2026, with the club citing its desire to improve its league position. The official announcement confirmed his departure.

7. Darren Fletcher (January 2026): Fletcher took interim charge after Amorim left. His spell lasted eight days, before United appointed Carrick.

Carrick faces another managerial test

Carrick initially returned as interim head coach before securing the permanent position in May 2026. His appointment followed a spell that helped United qualify for the Champions League.

However, the current campaign has brought fresh difficulties. United have struggled for league wins and dropped into the relegation zone, increasing scrutiny of the coaching position.

Sky Sports reports that the club’s football leadership is assessing the situation. It has also identified potential alternatives, although United have not confirmed a decision to remove Carrick.

The club is reportedly reluctant to appoint another interim coach if it makes a change. This could mean a permanent replacement becomes the preferred route.

Another manager change or a deeper problem?

United’s managerial turnover raises a bigger question about the club’s direction. Seven individuals have taken charge in five years, yet the team continues to face major consistency problems.

The changes have also involved different football philosophies, coaching structures and approaches to recruitment.

Another appointment could offer a fresh start. However, it would not automatically resolve the wider issues affecting the club.

For now, Carrick’s future remains uncertain. If United decide to part ways with him, the club will be preparing for yet another managerial transition.