Michael Carrick pens emotional open letter to United fans after sacking

Michael Carrick has responded to his dismissal as Manchester United manager with an emotional open letter published online, expressing gratitude to supporters and staff the day after the club ended his tenure.

In the statement, Carrick acknowledged the weight of leading the club he described as a lifelong love. “I’ve had the immense privilege of leading Manchester United, the football club that I love,” he wrote. “There are very few who get to live and feel it, and for that I’m incredibly grateful.”

Carrick addressed the standards he believes the role demands, noting that United carries a culture and set of values that set it apart from any other club. “Ultimately, you need to push to be the best, but there is a culture, there are values and there are behaviours that you have to live by and respect, which have been built over a long period of time,” he said.

Despite a difficult run of results that contributed to his departure, Carrick reserved particular warmth for the club’s supporters. “I know we’ve not had the results lately, but you’ve shown me nothing but love and support in times when the easiest thing, and what most end up doing, would be to turn the other way,” he wrote. “That means more than a win or two. That’s what makes you who you are. That’s why I fell in love with this club all those years ago.”

He also paid tribute to his coaching staff, crediting their commitment throughout his spell in charge. “You gave me everything you had, every single day, and I couldn’t have asked for any more. I’m incredibly grateful for your loyalty, hard work and support throughout.”

Carrick’s statement offers a rare and candid insight into the emotional toll of managing one of football’s most scrutinised clubs, and signals a dignified exit from a role he clearly held in the highest regard.