Talk of the Devils: The Athletic FC's Manchester United show

Despite what you might have read earlier in the week, Manchester United have not sacked head coach Michael Carrick. He will continue with his 'normal' duties for the game at Chelsea, and potentially beyond. Is it a show of support, though?
Whatever may happen in the future his task now is to galvanise a squad that is low on confidence, one that has been sent a message by fans. He will also need to get his captain onside and get him back to his best form.
He'll have to do it all without Benjamin Sesko until at least January. Laurie's exclusive story this week explains the reason behind his extended absence since early this season and why the club are carefully managing his return to action.
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Ian Irving is joined by Laurie Whitwell, Andy Mitten, and Cerys Jones to reflect on another miserable afternoon at Old Trafford as a terrible result and a mutinous atmosphere leave head coach Michael Carrick on the brink of losing his job.
Carrick looks set to remain in position for today, at least, but for how much longer? We briefly consider who is to blame for the club’s latest crisis, reflect on the growing anger among supporters, and try (with difficulty) to retain some optimism as we wonder whether anything will really change at Manchester United any time soon.
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Ian Irving speaks live to our men in Como, Laurie Whitwell and Andy Mitten, after Manchester United were taken apart in a 4-1 Champions League defeat.
From Michael Carrick’s apologetic wave to the 700 United fans to Bruno Fernandes openly questioning the team’s tactics, we break down another bleak night as the pressure on Carrick builds further.
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In his first interview since leaving Manchester United, Erik ten Hag spoke exclusively to Laurie Whitwell for The Athletic about his time in charge at Old Trafford.
In today’s show, we hear extracts from that conversation and discuss the biggest talking points, including his pride in managing United and winning the 2024 FA Cup, his departure from the club, managing Cristiano Ronaldo and what can contribute to a ‘toxic’ culture at Old Trafford.
We also hear of his satisfaction in developing United’s next generation and his frustrations over recruitment, including the failure to sign Harry Kane.

Read Laurie's interview on The Athletic here
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In an alternative universe where Michael Carrick's Manchester United have started the Premier League season on a hot streak, a 1-1 draw at Elland Road against a well organised, combative Leeds would be completely fine.
As it is, and despite an astute tactical shift from the manager, the enthusiasm from any positive developments was once again dampened by the final score and a drab second half.
A trip to the glamourous surroundings of Lake Como comes next for Carrick and co, and while there's less pressure from the Champions League table, the margin for error provided by a win would be more than welcome, grazie mille.
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