Michael Carrick has given thanks Manchester United players and supporters in an emotional message after his dismissal on Thursday.
Carrick was dismissed with United in the Premier League relegation zone having won one of their first 10 games, the club’s worst start to a season since 1986. It was confirmed this morning that Mauricio Pochettino will replace him at Old Trafford.
Despite the club’s struggles on the pitch, supporters continued to back Carrick, who won five Premier League crowns with United as a player under Sir Alex Ferguson, and the 45-year-old admitted he had been touched by their relentless support.
In a message on Instagram, he wrote: “I have had the immense privilege of managing Manchester United, the football club I love. Very few get to live and feel it and for that I am incredibly grateful.
“With that comes a huge responsibility, and to be at Manchester United, you have to understand exactly what that means. It’s different to anywhere else.
“Ultimately, you have to push to be the best, but there is a culture, there are values and there are behaviors that you have to live by and respect, which have been building for a long time.
“It’s a unique football club, with a substance and a history that cannot be ignored. That’s what inspires me every day.
“I want to say a big thank you to the fans. You are a special and rare breed, I must say. We’ve had some great moments this year and moments we’ll all remember. The best thing about being in my shoes was watching so many of you get lost in the excitement of those moments, leaving the stadium desperate to come back next time.
“I just wanted to give you something back. That love never dies.
“I know we haven’t had the results lately, but you’ve shown me nothing but love and support in times when the easiest thing, and what most people end up doing, would be to turn around. That means more than a win or two. That’s what makes you who you are. That’s why I fell in love with this club so many years ago.”
Carrick thanks United staff and players
Carrick thanked his staff, who also left the club on Thursday, as well as the squad.
He added: “A special thank you to my coaching staff. You gave me everything you had, every day, and I couldn’t have asked for more. I’m incredibly grateful for your loyalty, hard work and support.
“To all the staff behind the scenes, thank you for everything you do for this football club. Much of your work is unseen but it never goes unappreciated.
“And to the players, thank you for your efforts and the moments we shared. I wish you all the best for the future.
“I want nothing but success for Manchester United. This club has been such a big part of my life and that will never change. I will always be proud to have played my part and always want the best for him.”
“I’ll be with you from now on, watching from the sidelines, cheering the boys on.”
