Manchester United manager [Michael Carrick](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Carrick) told Sky Sports on Sunday that he will act in the club’s best interests after a 3‑0 defeat to [AFC Bournemouth](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AFC_Bournemouth) at Old Trafford. The loss left the 20‑time English champions just one point above the relegation zone and intensified speculation about Carrick’s future.
**What did Carrick say about his future?**
Carrick admitted the situation was “tough” and said he did not know what would happen next, but he would “always do what’s best for this football club”. He added, “I love what I do. I love the responsibility, but we’ll have to wait and see.”
**Key facts from the post‑match interview**
- United have now gone eight games without a win in all competitions.
- The defeat was the club’s third consecutive loss, following a 4‑1 thrashing by Como.
- Carrick’s decision to bench captain [Bruno Fernandes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bruno_Fernandes) and not bring him on as a substitute was heavily criticised.
- Fernandes, last season’s Premier League Player of the Year, had previously questioned Carrick’s tactics after the Como loss.
- The Red Devils slipped to within one point of the relegation zone after the Bournemouth loss.
**Why was the benching of Fernandes controversial?**
Fernandes, who has been a pivotal figure for United, was omitted from the starting eleven and remained unused on the bench. Carrick defended the choice, saying, “There are always times in games when you are trying to change the course of the game and to make a difference. Those were the decisions we made today.”
**Support from the fans**
Despite the poor run of results, many United supporters expressed backing for Carrick as he left the pitch at full‑time. Carrick acknowledged the mixed emotions, stating, “I have mixed emotions to have that connection with the supporters in the moment we’re in. I need time to digest that.” He also recognised the fans’ encouragement while admitting, “We haven’t been good enough.”
**Background context**
United’s recent form has been alarming, with eight winless matches across the Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup. The club’s position just above the relegation zone marks a sharp decline for a side that has historically dominated English football. The decision to drop Fernandes follows a public spat after the 4‑1 loss to Como, where the Portuguese international criticised Carrick’s tactical approach.
The upcoming fixtures will be crucial in determining whether Carrick can reverse United’s fortunes or if the board will consider a managerial change.