Michael Carrick breaks silence after Man United sacking, love for club 'never dies'

Michael Carrick has broken his silence following his sacking as Manchester United manager, thanking the club's supporters for their backing and insisting his love for the club "never dies."

Carrick was dismissed on Thursday following a poor run of results that left United in the Premier League relegation zone, just five months after signing a contract until 2028. Mauricio Pochettino was confirmed as Carrick's replacement a day later.

Shortly after that news dropped at midday UK time, Carrick posted an emotional farewell message on Instagram.

"I've had the immense privilege of leading Manchester United, the football club that I love," Carrick wrote.

"There are very few who get to live that and feel it, and for that I'm incredibly grateful.

"With that comes huge responsibility, and to be at Manchester United, you need to understand exactly what that means. It's different to anywhere else."

Carrick, who won five Premier League titles and the Champions League during his playing career at Old Trafford, reserved particular praise for the club's supporters despite the difficult end to his tenure. Carrick won just one of his final 10 league games.

"I want to say a big thank you to the supporters. I must say, you are a special, rare breed," he wrote.

"We've had some great times this year and moments we'll all remember. The best thing about being in my position was seeing so many of you lose yourselves in the emotion of those moments, leaving the stadium desperate to come back again next time.

"I just wanted to give you something back. That love never dies."

He added: "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."

Carrick went on to thank his coaching staff, the club's employees and his players before ending with a message of continued support for United.

"I want nothing but success for Manchester United," he wrote. "This club has been such a big part of my life and that will never change. I'll always be proud to have played my part and I'll always want the very best for it.

"I'll be right there with you from now on, watching from the sidelines, cheering the lads on."