After an eighth consecutive defeat for Manchester United, it’s starting to feel like the end of the road for Michael Carrick in the manager’s position at Old Trafford.
Everyone knows that the real problem with the Red Devils lies upstairs, but unfortunately, the 45-year-old is going to be the fall guy for the hierarchy’s ongoing failures.
The 3-0 loss to Bournemouth this afternoon could prove to be the final straw for INEOS, who could decide on yet another change after the hammering on home soil.
How Man Utd suffered another Premier League loss to Bournemouth
Over recent years, United’s clashes against Bournemouth have been tricky to navigate, with the Red Devils failing to beat the Cherries in any of their last six meetings.
This afternoon’s meeting with Marco Rose’s men was no different, as once again they were outclassed and outfought all over the pitch by the visitors.
After a disappointing opening 30 minutes, it was Rayan who broke the deadlock after a superb volley from a dangerous free-kick whipped in by Justin Kluivert.
It was all downhill from there for Carrick and his side, as Leny Yoro’s costly slip saw Adrien Truffert presented with an easy pass across the box to pick out Marcus Tavernier, who doubled the lead.
A couple of changes before the 70-minute mark were ineffective and saw no change for the Red Devils, as yet another defensive error saw Evanilson fire a beauty into an empty net from a tight angle.
The full-time whistle was greeted by boos from the United faithful, but mainly towards the players, as the manager was serenaded off the pitch in what could be his final game at the helm.
How United players have contributed to Carrick’s potential sacking
Wednesday’s defeat to Como in the Champions League was a low point of Carrick’s tenure, but he handed a plethora of senior members a chance to right the wrongs against Bournemouth today.
Countless players failed to repay the faith shown in them by the manager, with midfielder Youri Tielemans once again struggling to deliver at the heart of the side.
The Belgian started the encounter at Old Trafford, but was swiftly replaced at the interval after losing 79% of his ground duels and losing possession 11 times before the break.
Countless players could have also been replaced after the dismal first half showing, with forward Bryan Mbeumo once again looking toothless in the final third.
The Cameroonian international ended up playing for the entirety of the defeat, but like Tielemans, he was largely dominated by the opposition throughout the meeting.
He lost 75% of the aerial duels he contested against the Cherries, whilst also coming out second best in 50% of his ground duels – with the winger unable to provide the focal point needed to make the ball stick.
Why United’s 3/10 flop must follow Carrick out of Old Trafford
It now feels inevitable that Carrick will be handed his marching orders in the days ahead, but will the change of manager really paper over the cracks behind the scenes at Old Trafford?
He looked a defeated man during his post-match interview following the defeat, and even looked close to tears after waving to the supporters before walking down the tunnel.
The 45-year-old has arguably had his hands tied behind his back during his tenure, especially when he’s having to operate with Diogo Dalot within the backline.
The Portuguese international has been a first-team regular over recent seasons, but he’s constantly been called into question over his disappointing performances in Manchester.
However, due to the lack of investment from the hierarchy, he’s still a key member of Carrick’s squad, with his showing against Bournemouth highlighting why he needs to depart the club.
The 27-year-old featured out of position at left-back, which only contributed to his struggles, as he only managed to complete 65% of the passes he attempted.
Such a figure showcases his wasteful nature with the ball at his feet, with the defender often unable to pick out a teammate with his attacking runs down the left-hand side.
Dalot even gifted possession back to the opposition on a staggering 30 separate occasions – with such a tally by far and away the highest of any player on the pitch.
The aforementioned tally saw him lose the ball every three times he touched it, which no doubt contributed to the lack of attacking threat within Carrick’s side.
His ability to complete just 29% of his attempted crosses at Old Trafford sums up his struggles in possession – but INEOS have continued to ignore such an issue.
|
Man Utd player ratings vs Bournemouth |
|
|---|---|
|
Player |
Rating |
|
Senne Lammens |
4 |
|
Leny Yoro |
4 |
|
Harry Maguire |
4 |
|
Ayden Heaven |
3 |
|
Diogo Dalot |
3 |
|
Andrey Santos |
4 |
|
Carlos Baleba |
5 |
|
Amad Diallo |
4 |
|
Youri Tielemans |
5 |
|
Mason Mount |
4 |
|
Bryan Mbeumo |
5 |
Dalot was even dribbled past twice by the Cherries attackers, resulting in the defender being handed a measly 3/10 match rating following the final whistle.
After such a showing, it’s clear that the defender is no longer at the level needed for success in the Premier League and that he should be moved on in the winter window.
Carrick losing his job would be an unfair reflection of his time at Old Trafford; however, the same can’t be said should Dalot be sold at the next available opportunity.
