Why INEOS are keeping faith in Michael Carrick despite Man Utd's worst start in 12 years

Manchester United have hit rock bottom with their worst Premier League start since the 2014/15 campaign, picking up a mere five points from their opening five matches. Sitting 12th in the table alongside an early Carabao Cup exit has piled immense pressure on Michael Carrick.

However, as confirmed by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the INEOS hierarchy have decided to stick with the English tactician. The Old Trafford board have opted for patience to maintain dressing room stability and avoid a hefty contract payoff.

Three reasons why INEOS are keeping faith in Michael Carrick

Firstly, Carrick retains the absolute backing of the dressing room. Unlike under previous regimes, the players fully buy into the Englishman's philosophy, with no signs of internal division.

Secondly, INEOS are willing to be patient with a midfield that was overhauled in the summer of 2026. The board want to wait for key signing Carlos Baleba to return from injury so Carrick can deploy his optimal starting XI.

Finally, there is the financial barrier. Sacking Carrick now would force the club to pay a severance package of up to £8.8 million, a heavy financial burden the hierarchy are keen to avoid.

An unspoken ultimatum and the Tottenham test

Yet, INEOS' patience has its limits, coming with an unspoken ultimatum. The Manchester United board have given Michael Carrick until the November 2026 international break to steady the sinking ship.

Carrick's bid to save his job spans a decisive eight-match run, starting with a high-stakes clash against Tottenham on 10 October. This represents the first major test of the former midfielder's survival instincts in the dugout.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano has stressed that the pressure on Carrick to spark an immediate turnaround is immense. Should results and performances fail to improve starting with the Tottenham fixture, his dismissal will be a matter of when, not if.

The Verdict

Michael Carrick still holds his Old Trafford destiny in his own hands. This patience from the INEOS hierarchy is his final opportunity to prove he can steer the ship and retain his hot seat before things spiral out of control.

Can Carrick guide Manchester United to victory over Tottenham to secure his job?