Michael Carrick has thanked Manchester United’s supporters after his spell in charge came to an end, saying his bond with the club will remain despite the change in the dugout.
The former Manchester United coach wrote an emotional farewell message following the appointment of Argentine Mauricio Pochettino as the club’s new manager, marking the start of a new era at Old Trafford.
Carrick, who spent many years at Manchester United as a player before returning as a coach and later taking charge of the team, expressed his gratitude to everyone who supported him during his time in the role.
His thanks extended to the supporters, coaching staff, other club employees and the players, whom he praised for their contribution during his period of responsibility.
Carrick described managing Manchester United as a huge honour and said it was an opportunity available to very few people. He added that he felt deeply grateful to have played a part in the club’s history.
He also reflected on the demands of leading a club of Manchester United’s size. The responsibility, he said, was about more than simply trying to win matches. It required a genuine understanding of the club’s history, culture and values, alongside a commitment to standards built over many years.
Carrick said Manchester United’s identity had been a constant source of inspiration to him.
The former manager reserved particular praise for the club’s supporters, describing them as “special and unique”. He said some of the most memorable parts of his time in charge came from seeing their joy and emotion during the team’s victories and exceptional moments over the course of the year.
He added that he had wanted to repay some of the affection shown to him by the fans, insisting: “This love never dies.” Carrick said his relationship with the supporters would endure, regardless of how circumstances changed.
Acknowledging that the team had not produced the results expected in recent weeks, Carrick thanked the fans for continuing to stand by him during a difficult period.
Their support when performances and results fell short of expectations had meant a great deal, he said. Carrick added that loyalty during difficult times revealed the true character of Manchester United’s supporters and was one of the reasons he had loved and remained so closely connected to the club.
He also paid tribute to the coaching staff for their commitment, daily work and continued support, saying he appreciated everything they had contributed during their time together.
The former Manchester United coach highlighted the efforts of staff working behind the scenes, whose important work did not always receive enough recognition. He wished the players well for the next stage of their careers and thanked them for their efforts during his tenure.
Carrick ended by saying Manchester United would always remain an important part of his life and that leaving his coaching position would not diminish his pride in belonging to the club.
He said he would continue supporting the team from the stands and follow its matches as a fan, while wishing Manchester United further success under Pochettino.
