Michael Owen backs Michael Carrick to keep Man Utd job despite growing pressure

Former Manchester United striker Michael Owen believes Michael Carrick deserves more time despite mounting pressure on the head coach following a disappointing start to the 2026/27 season. Speaking to GOAL in an interview published on October 12, Owen defended Carrick ahead of a challenging run of away fixtures, including meetings with Atletico Madrid, Leeds United and Chelsea.

Carrick replaced Ruben Amorim in January and guided United to third place in the Premier League last season, securing Champions League qualification before signing a two-year contract in May. However, United have collected just six points from their opening six league matches, leaving Carrick under increasing scrutiny.

“I was looking at the next set of fixtures for Manchester United and they’re bloody difficult. A lot of away games,” Owen said. “I’m a big Carrick fan. I thought he should have been given the job. I understand that there’s pressure surrounding the job. Absolutely. But how well he did last season, I think he absolutely should be given time.”

Owen also argued that United had been unlucky in recent matches and retained the potential to enjoy a decent season under Carrick.