Michael Carrick Under Pressure at Manchester United

Michael Carrick Under Pressure at Manchester United

Michael Carrick is facing increasing scrutiny as Manchester United’s disappointing start to the 2026/27 Premier League season raises fresh questions about his future at Old Trafford. A body language expert has claimed that the United manager is showing signs of extreme pressure, with his position potentially at risk before November.

According to a report by The Sun, body language expert Darren Stanton believes Carrick’s gestures and facial expressions suggest he is struggling with the scrutiny surrounding the club. Stanton identified several behaviours, including a one-sided shoulder shrug, furrowed brows, compressed lips and repeated tongue movements, which he interpreted as signs of discomfort, frustration and uncertainty.

However, these observations are Stanton’s interpretation of Carrick’s public demeanour. They do not establish what the manager is thinking, and Manchester United have not confirmed any decision to dismiss him.

Manchester United’s poor start increases pressure

The speculation comes after United were held to a frustrating 1–1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on October 10. Bryan Mbeumo gave United the lead in the 73rd minute, and Tottenham’s Rodrigo Bentancur was subsequently sent off. Despite having a numerical advantage, United failed to secure all three points, with Dominic Solanke scoring a stoppage-time equaliser.

The result left Carrick’s team with just six points from their opening six Premier League fixtures. It was United’s worst start to a league campaign since the 1986/87 season, intensifying criticism from supporters and increasing pressure on the manager. Carrick and his players were booed following the draw. 

Could Carrick leave before November?

Stanton believes Carrick could leave Manchester United before November, but that prediction remains speculation rather than an official club announcement. The coming fixtures could prove important as the team attempts to recover its form and restore confidence among supporters.

Carrick previously earned the permanent position after a strong spell in charge last season, collecting 39 points from his final 17 league matches. That run helped convince United to appoint him permanently in May, but results this season have been far less encouraging. 

For now, the central issue is United’s performance on the pitch. If results do not improve, questions about Carrick’s future are likely to continue. Nevertheless, body language alone cannot confirm whether a manager expects to be dismissed, and there is no verified confirmation that United have decided to sack him.

The pressure is mounting at Old Trafford, but whether Carrick can turn the season around—or whether the club eventually considers a managerial change—remains to be seen.