Manchester United news as Avram Glazer makes a rare public statement and plans are made for the future
Manchester United manager Michael Carrick during the Champions League win over Roma
Michael Carrick has bought himself more time(Image: 2026 DeFodi Images)
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The cloud hanging over Manchester United has lifted somewhat ahead of Sunday's home clash with Aston Villa. Michael Carrick's side appeared destined for another costly defeat after falling 2-0 behind against Roma in the Champions League.
However, United staged a remarkable comeback, sealed by two late strikes from Matheus Cunha, who was subsequently dismissed following two yellow cards for his celebration and a foul in stoppage time. The Brazilian attacker will serve the standard one-match suspension after escaping further sanction for not heading straight to the dressing room after his dismissal.
In Villa, United come up against a side showing signs of progress under Unai Emery following their summer overhaul and sluggish start. Emery has been amongst the prominent names linked with the Old Trafford hotseat should Carrick be dismissed.
That prospect now appears remote, however, with the Spanish coach poised to pen fresh terms at Villa Park. A victory, accompanied by a convincing display, would bolster Carrick's standing as United enter the international break. Here's a summary of the latest developments from Old Trafford...
United's manager stance
United reportedly intend to steer clear of appointing another interim manager should Carrick lose his job. The club has developed a pattern of bringing in temporary bosses in recent years. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer held the role before securing the position on a permanent basis.
Following his dismissal in November 2021, Ralf Rangnick stepped in for the remainder of the campaign. Carrick served as caretaker boss himself during the latter half of last season.
Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox
Omar Berrada and Jason Wilcox would reportedly taking a long-term approach to the club's next manager(Image: Getty Images)
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However, according to Sky Sports, Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada, who oversee United's football operations, would prefer a permanent appointment rather than a temporary solution should they part ways with Carrick.
The report suggests that the United hierarchy would take a 'long-term' view, recognising the crucial importance of their next managerial decision. For the time being, Carrick continues to enjoy their backing.
Glazer speaks out
Co-chairman Avram Glazer has claimed the club's commercial strength is not dependent on silverware. Speaking to financiers at Deutsche Bank's Sports Investment Conference in London, Glazer drew parallels with the New York Yankees and Dallas Cowboys, franchises capable of sustaining global appeal despite a lack of on-field glory.
Avram Glazer
Avram Glazer's comments haven't gone down well(Image: Alex Pantling - UEFA via Getty Images)
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As reported by The Athletic, the remarks highlight ownership's conviction that United's commercial appeal remains unshakeable, even as scrutiny intensifies on its leadership. The comments have not gone downwell with United supporters, who continued their protests against the Glazers, minority stakeholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe and club executives during the victory over Roma.
Around 3,000 green and gold balloons were released ahead of kick-off and tennis balls were thrown onto the pitch during the game. Chants of "We want the Glazers out" rang out after the final whistle had blown.