Michael Carrick Not the Man for Manchester United, But He Was Let Down by Glazers, Bruno Fernandes, and Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Mismanagement

Manchester United's struggles continue, and the focus has shifted from the pitch to the boardroom and dressing room. After a heavy defeat, the Stretford End paid tribute to former midfielder Michael Carrick, but their anger was directed at the club's owners, the Glazer family, and new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. Fans are frustrated by years of underinvestment and poor decision-making, which they believe have left the squad in need of 'open heart surgery'—a phrase once used by former manager Ralf Rangnick. The situation is compounded by the attitude of star player Bruno Fernandes, who has been accused of sulking and failing to lead by example during tough times. Carrick, who served as interim manager after Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's sacking, is not seen as the long-term solution, but he is a symbol of a better era. The defeat highlighted deep-rooted issues that go beyond the manager, including a lack of accountability from the top and a disconnect between the players and the fans. Unless there is a fundamental change in ownership and player mentality, the club risks falling further behind its rivals. The Glazers' money-hungry approach and Ratcliffe's early missteps have only intensified the calls for change.