Manchester United’s struggle at Old Trafford continued as Michael Carrick’s final game in charge ended in a 3‑0 defeat to Bournemouth, a result that has intensified calls for the former midfielder to be dismissed. The loss, coupled with a 4‑1 home loss to Como in the Champions League, leaves United winless in eight consecutive matches across all competitions and puts Carrick’s future in doubt.
The Cherries opened the scoring with a goal from Rayan Azzedine, followed by a second from Marcus Tavernier before the break, both of which United were unable to respond to. The early goals were described as avoidable, and the home side’s performance was criticised by supporters who displayed a banner reading “standards” featuring former United legends Roy Keane, Eric Cantona and Bryan Robson. The banner was taken out of storage for the match, highlighting the growing frustration among the fanbase.
Carrick, who had spoken with defiance and optimism before the game, was left on the bench for a second half that saw United’s attack falter. Evanilson capitalised on a mistake by Senne Lammens to score the third, sealing the defeat. United’s captain Bruno Fernandes was omitted from the squad after publicly questioning Carrick’s tactics in Italy, a decision the manager defended as a “pure football” choice rather than a punitive measure.
The loss marks Bournemouth’s third 3‑0 victory at Old Trafford in the last four seasons, a streak that has added to the pressure on Carrick. Marco Rose’s team had recently celebrated a 3‑0 win over AC Milan in the Europa League, a result that has further highlighted the contrast between the two clubs’ fortunes.
With the winless streak now at eight games, the club’s board and supporters are increasingly demanding a change at the helm. The outcome of the next fixture will be crucial in determining whether Carrick can salvage his tenure or if a new manager will be appointed to steer United away from the bottom of the Premier League table.