United players unhappy with Carrick despite winless streak, says Romano

A 4-1 loss to Champions League debutants Como in Italy on Wednesday marked one of Manchester United’s most humiliating European performances. The defeat stretched the club’s winless sequence to seven matches, yet INEOS leadership has not moved to dismiss Michael Carrick following Ruben Amorim’s failed tenure.

Bruno Fernandes’ comments after the match indicated growing instability at Carrington, suggesting Carrick’s position remains precarious. Ahead of a critical Sunday fixture against Bournemouth at Old Trafford, journalist Fabrizio Romano detailed the internal mood via his YouTube channel, describing it as “a very important day for Manchester United.”

Player dissatisfaction with tactical choices

Romano reported that United management granted Carrick additional time post-Como to assess the situation through the international break, which explains his Friday media appearance. Although Carrick expressed full confidence in the squad, Romano stated, “there are some issues with the players.”

The former United midfielder is widely respected by staff, board members, and directors as a person, according to Romano. However, professional disagreements persist regarding tactics and decision-making. “There are some players that were not happy. That’s very clear after the Como game,” Romano noted, distinguishing personal rapport from sporting performance.

Internal discussions on successor candidates

Club officials have already initiated talks to identify potential replacements should they decide to part ways with Carrick. Divergent views exist within the hierarchy, creating tension over who would lead the team next.

Romano identified “the German part” of the organization, likely including Christopher Vivell, as admirers of Julian Nagelsmann and Fabian Hürzeler. Conversely, other figures favor Eddie Howe. Jason Wilcox, the director of football, specifically advocates for a candidate with Premier League experience.