Schmeichel Slams United’s “Disrespectful” Treatment of Michael Carrick
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel called the club's handling of head coach Michael Carrick "disrespectful" as talks with Mauricio Pochettino open. He wants Carrick kept until January so he can sign his own players.
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has criticized the club's "disrespectful" treatment of head coach Michael Carrick, as United continue to be linked with Mauricio Pochettino. Schmeichel said Carrick should be kept in the job.
Pochettino is the leading candidate to replace Carrick, according to sources. United have opened talks with the 54-year-old's representatives.
Schmeichel believes the club's problems begin above Carrick. He argues the under-pressure coach should get the chance to bring in his own players when the January transfer window opens.
"I absolutely do feel sympathy for him. I think the way this is playing out is very disrespectful to him," Schmeichel said.
Defenders not signed
The former United goalkeeper said Carrick is not to blame for the team's position in the table. "I don't think he's doing anything wrong," he said.
Schmeichel pointed to the summer window. "They got through a whole transfer window without signing a single defender," he said. "You can't win games if you concede 30 goals in 10 games."
He traced the club's decline back further. "There are so many things that have been going on at Manchester United literally since Sir Alex [Ferguson] and David Gill left the club," he said. "And it's never been corrected."
His conclusion was blunt. "I think what is happening is wrong. I think we should stick with Michael," Schmeichel said.
He called for patience. In his view, United should steady the ship, sign the players Carrick wants in January, and be realistic about what the season is about.
Kane backs Pochettino
Pochettino led Tottenham to the 2019 Champions League final. One of his star players there, England captain Harry Kane, paid tribute to his former coach on Wednesday.
"Me and Mauricio obviously have a fantastic relationship," Kane said. He named Pochettino as one of the coaches with a big impact on his career and development.
"I needed his guidance," Kane said. "The way he pushed me, not just on the pitch but off the pitch as well was really, really helpful."
Kane stopped short of predicting a move. "We'll have to wait and see what happens but I know he's a great guy and also a fantastic manager," he said.
