RismadarVoice Reporters
November 10, 2026
Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt has become the subject of an unusual social media debate as supporters react to reports that manager Michael Carrick could be dismissed following the club’s disappointing start to the season.
The Dutch international has been linked to what some fans jokingly describe as a managerial curse, following claims that he has started every season of his professional career under a different coach.
The discussion has intensified amid speculation that United States national team manager Mauricio Pochettino could replace Carrick at Old Trafford.
According to a report by The Sun, De Ligt could soon work under the 12th manager of his senior career if United decide to make another managerial change.
Some supporters have jokingly suggested that Pochettino should avoid the supposed curse by selling the defender if he eventually takes charge.
Others have expressed concern about the frequency of managerial changes throughout De Ligt’s career.
However, there is no evidence that the defender has contributed to the dismissals of his previous managers. The supposed curse is a social media joke rather than an established sporting phenomenon.
De Ligt joined Manchester United from Bayern Munich in 2024, but injuries have affected his availability and consistency.
Meanwhile, Carrick faces increasing pressure following United’s poor results in the 2026–27 campaign.
The Red Devils currently occupy 18th position in the Premier League after collecting eight points from their opening 10 matches.
Their latest league outing ended in a dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa on Sunday, with United scoring twice in stoppage time to secure a point.
Despite the comeback, the result did little to resolve concerns about the team’s defensive performances and overall league position.
Reports indicate that United’s director of football, Jason Wilcox, and chief executive, Omar Berrada, are expected to discuss Carrick’s future with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Pochettino has emerged as a leading candidate should United decide to appoint a replacement, although other managers have also been linked with the position.
The Argentine is currently in charge of the United States national team and has previous Premier League managerial experience with Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea.
As of November 10, Manchester United have not officially announced Carrick’s dismissal or confirmed the appointment of a successor.
For now, the speculation surrounding De Ligt remains a humorous subplot to the uncertainty over United’s managerial future.
