Manchester United are once again facing questions about the direction of the club under their current leadership.

Sunday’s 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth at Old Trafford pushed the team deeper into a difficult spell, extending their winless run to 8 matches.

The result left United languishing in 16th place in the Premier League, just one point clear of the relegation zone.

Supporters made their frustration clear, although many in the Stretford End continued to sing Michael Carrick’s name as he acknowledged them at full-time.

By Monday, attention had shifted from the performance on the pitch to meetings at Carrington, where senior figures were weighing up the manager’s future.

Despite the urgency surrounding the situation, United have not rushed into making a change.

Reason for Manchester United reluctance to sack Michael Carrick

According to The Athletic, the financial consequences of sacking Carrick could be one reason Manchester United have yet to make a final decision on his future.

Michael Carrick, who signed a two-year contract after taking charge earlier this year, is only months into the agreement.

Dismissing him now could leave United facing compensation costs, while members of his coaching staff could also be entitled to payouts if they depart alongside him.

The club would then need to negotiate with a replacement and potentially cover further compensation to prise an established manager away from their current employers.

United have recent experience of how expensive managerial changes can become.

Following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal in January, the club disclosed a provision of up to £15.9 million relating to the former head coach and his staff.

Sky News also reported that payouts to dismissed managers and senior staff since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement had approached £100 million.

United are also believed to want clarity over their next appointment before removing the current manager, rather than risking a period without a settled successor.

Carrick returned to Carrington on Monday to watch United’s Under-21s face Hull City, while chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox held discussions about his position.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family are also involved in the deliberations.

Carrick is expected to take first-team training today, but there is no guarantee he will remain in charge for Saturday’s trip to Chelsea.