Manchester United confirmed Thursday that Michael Carrick has left his position as men's first-team head coach following their worst-ever start to a season.

The club said it had reached the “extremely difficult conclusion that a change is necessary in order to achieve our ambitions.”

Carrick returned to United in January and oversaw a major turnaround, guiding the team to third place in the Premier League last season.

United won 12 of their final 17 league matches under Carrick, collecting more points than any other Premier League side during that period.

The former United midfielder was subsequently handed the job permanently but leaves with the club in the Premier League relegation zone after a poor opening to the new campaign.

United described Carrick as a club legend and praised his leadership, dedication and professionalism.

The club said it intends to appoint a permanent successor “as quickly as possible.”

Former Tottenham, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea coach Mauricio Pochettino has reached an agreement in principle to take over, according to several media reports.

Pochettino is currently head coach of the US national team.