Glazer insists United's commercial power needs no trophies as Carrick backed over interim plan

Avram Glazer has publicly argued that Manchester United’s commercial strength does not depend on winning trophies, drawing a parallel with American sports franchises the New York Yankees and Dallas Cowboys — comments that have drawn a sharp response from supporters already protesting the club’s ownership.

Speaking at Deutsche Bank’s Sports Investment Conference in London, the United co-chairman suggested the club’s global appeal remains intact regardless of on-field results, a position reported by The Athletic. The remarks arrive at a sensitive moment, with United’s performances under Michael Carrick under scrutiny and fan discontent with the Glazer family’s stewardship showing no sign of easing.

On the managerial front, United’s football operations chiefs Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada are said to favour a permanent appointment over another interim solution should Carrick be relieved of his duties, according to Sky Sports. The club has leaned on temporary managers in recent years — Ole Gunnar Solskjaer initially came in as a caretaker before being handed the job full-time, Ralf Rangnick stepped in following Solskjaer’s dismissal in November 2021, and Carrick himself served as caretaker during the latter half of last season. The reported preference for a long-term appointment signals an intention to break that cycle.

For now, Carrick retains the backing of the hierarchy as United prepare to host Aston Villa. The timing is reasonably encouraging for the manager: United recovered from 2-0 down against Roma in the Champions League, with Matheus Cunha scoring twice late on to seal a comeback, though the Brazilian was dismissed after receiving two yellow cards — one for his celebration, one for a foul in stoppage time — and will serve a one-match ban.

Villa arrive at Old Trafford in decent form under Unai Emery, who had been among the names linked with the United job. That prospect appears to have receded, with Emery understood to be close to signing a new contract at Villa Park. A convincing United win would strengthen Carrick’s position heading into the international break.