Michael Carrick must have known what was coming.

Not just because reports of his imminent dismissal were widespread - followed by information about who would be replacing him as Manchester United boss.

But because, effectively, he and his representatives were given heavy enough indications of what was to follow.

On Monday, according to well-placed sources, Carrick's agent was contacted by chief executive Omar Berrada to be told he and director of football Jason Wilcox would be heading to Monaco for a planned meeting with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe that would include a discussion about the head coach's future.

A day later, it is believed Wilcox had a similar conversation with Carrick.

It is understood that on both occasions it was communicated that a recommendation regarding Carrick's future at the club would be made.

What is not clear is whether Carrick and his representatives knew that recommendation was to relieve him of his duties.

By that point, BBC Sport has been told United were aware of a $10m (£7m) release clause in Mauricio Pochettino's contract with the United States national team. One source even indicated it was representatives of the Argentine who told the Premier League side.

There is some regret behind the scenes at United that machinations leading to Carrick's departure on Thursday were played out so publicly.

But with football clubs the size of United, keeping such developments completely private is extremely difficult - and there is a feeling they were as transparent with Carrick as they could be.

Following heavy defeats by Como and Bournemouth, United placed huge importance on the following three games - against Chelsea, Roma and Aston Villa.

It is understood United's leadership team were clear with Carrick that results and performances needed to improve. A defeat, a victory and draw weren't enough to save him.

There is a feeling that during that three-game period, there was not enough progress, particularly in terms of team structure - underlined by the fact they conceded eight goals.

Carrick has conducted himself with great dignity during the turmoil of the past few days and he leaves the club - certainly in the eyes of supporters - with his standing as a United great intact.

When United first appointed Carrick - initially on an interim basis following the sacking of Ruben Amorim in January - he had a positive impact on the squad, and subsequently results.

United liked his positive messaging to the players and media. They felt Carrick brought calm to rocky waters and protected his players at every opportunity - a contrast from at least the closing stages of Amorim's tenure.

On the pitch, the United hierarchy felt Carrick's style of play allowed the forward players more freedom, and they won 12 of their last 17 matches of the season.

While United considered other managerial options in the summer, there was ultimately a sense Carrick had earned a shot at the job on a permanent basis.

The 45-year-old signed a two-year deal, though it is understood United contractually protected themselves in the event of an early termination.

Part of the thought process was to provide the players with some managerial stability given the increased turnover of head coaches in recent years.

Yet the season started poorly with defeat at newly promoted Hull City - and has only spiralled downward since.

United are second bottom of the Premier League having won just twice all season and are 17th in the Champions League table.

Since Monday, talks have been ongoing with Pochettino.

On Wednesday, Berrada contacted the US Soccer Federation to confirm the existence of the release clause and their intention to activate it.

It is understood the news did not come as a surprise to those across the Atlantic.

Pochettino had been clear with his employers about the discussions with United and - most pertinently - his intention to return to the Premier League.

While United want Pochettino in situ as soon as possible, they are respectful of the fact the USA have two fixtures against Haiti to play - the second of which is on 18 November.

If Pochettino takes charge of the second game, it is understood he will be in place at United's Carrington headquarters on 19 November - four days before they face Liverpool.

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