Carrick’s future is reportedly uncertain, though no final decision has been reported. The Monaco meeting could clarify whether United’s leadership still sees him as the person to turn things around or is beginning to assess alternatives.
For a club with United’s ambitions, a spell in the relegation zone would make the next run of results critical. A change of coach might offer a reset, but it would not solve deeper problems by itself. The executives’ task is to judge whether the issues are tactical, structural or both - and whether Carrick has time to address them.
Mauricio Pochettino is being discussed as a possible successor, and other reports say he would be open to talks if United approached him. But he is under contract with the United States national team, meaning any move would require a resolution with his current employers.
Pochettino’s experience in English football, including spells with Tottenham and Chelsea, makes him a credible candidate on paper. Yet interest is not an agreement, and the contract hurdle means this would be more involved than appointing an available coach.
The next clue will be what follows the Monaco summit: a show of backing for Carrick, a clearer deadline for improvement or movement towards a replacement. Until United make a decision, Pochettino remains a possibility, not a confirmed appointment.