Michael Owen Questions Manchester United’s Board Over Michael Carrick’s Future Amid Coaching Changes
Manchester United have cycled through numerous head coaches, ranging from Jose Mourinho to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Michael Owen recently shared with GOAL his view that more frequent managerial changes would not benefit the club, especially as speculation swirls around Michael Carrick's position.
A Tough Act to Follow
After Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 following a 13th Premier League title, replacing him has proven nearly impossible. Ferguson's 27-year reign included domestic dominance and a historic Treble victory in 1999, leaving huge shoes to fill.
Managers Who Tried and Failed
Since then, David Moyes managed only eight months, and no manager has lasted three years at Old Trafford. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer came closest with 168 games. Carrick, initially interim, now has 17 games under his belt and earned a two-year contract after securing a top-three finish and Champions League qualification. Yet his future is uncertain just weeks later.
The Managerial Carousel
United have experimented with well-known figures like Mourinho and Louis van Gaal, former players such as Solskjaer and Carrick, and emerging talents including Ruben Amorim. Despite this, the core problems at the club seem deeper than who is in charge.
Michael Owen’s Take on the Situation
"They've tried absolutely everything," Owen said. "The one time it actually worked, which was last season with Carrick, why change things? Chopping and changing isn't a good look for the club."
He pointed out that although the current season hasn’t started perfectly, it's too soon to dismiss Carrick based on a few matches. Owen warned against the board making hasty decisions that could harm the team's long-term progress.
"I would hate to see Manchester United being weak at board level and parting company [with Carrick]. There’s still plenty of time before you start questioning that," Owen added.
Upcoming Matches Could Decide Carrick’s Fate
Carrick remains in charge after a 1-1 draw against a depleted Tottenham side. However, a challenging series of away games lies ahead:
- Champions League: Atletico Madrid vs Manchester United, October 13, 22:00
- Premier League: Leeds United vs Manchester United, October 18, 16:00
- European fixture: Como vs Manchester United (featuring Cesc Fabregas)
- Premier League: Chelsea vs Manchester United, October 31
The results on these trips could prove decisive for Carrick’s future at the club.






