Carrick arrives at Man Utd's training ground with sack announcement imminent

Michael Carrick has now arrived at Manchester United's training complex for what is likely to be the final time as Red Devils manager.

The former United midfielder arrived at 7.50am in his Range Rover, where he is expected to meet with the club's hierarchy to have his sacking confirmed face to face.

United CEO Omar Berrada, Director of Football Jason Wilcox and co-owner Jim Ratcliffe met in Monaco on Wednesday to discuss Carrick's future after a terrible start to the season. It is understood Berrada and Wilcox presented the recommendation that a change in the dugout was required.

That recommendation is believed to have been accepted with the two landing back in Manchester at around 8pm, according to the Manchester Evening News. Berrada and Wilcox were seen arriving at Carrington shortly after Carrick on Thursday morning.

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Old Trafford bosses were insistent that any decision would be communicated to Carrick in-person, rather than a call from the meeting itself. Carrick continued to take training on Monday and Tuesday, before those players not on international duty were given time off.

The writing has appeared to be on the wall for Carrick for some time, despite only being permanently appointed during the summer. The 45-year-old was initially hired as an interim in January, replacing Ruben Amorim.

However, after transforming the club's fortunes and securing a Champions League return, it was decided to give him a two-year contract.

But after just one Premier League win in 10 games, he has lost the faith of Berrada, Wilcox and Ratcliffe, who will now look for a third permanent manager in less than 12 months.

That man is expected to be Mauricio Pochettino, with United officials attempting to agree terms for an exit package for the current USA national team manager.

Pochettino was still coaching the US side on Wednesday, but personal terms have been agreed. United have also made contact about triggering the $10million (£7.5million) release clause in his contract. That fee will rise even further once terms are agreed to hire a number of his assistant.

His arrival in Manchester could be delayed however, with the chance that he could remain in charge of USA for their Concacaf Nations League quarter final against Haiti. The tie will be played over two legs, with the second not being played until the early hours of Wednesday morning.

That would mean the new manager is facing a race against time to prepare his new charges for a daunting first game back in the Premier League away at Liverpool.