INEOS CEO officially rules out manager sacking

INEOS appointed Michael Carrick as Manchester United’s permanent manager following an impressive interim spell, but their decision is already facing serious scrutiny.

Carrick initially replaced Ruben Amorim and inspired a remarkable turnaround, guiding United to third place in the Premier League and securing Champions League qualification.

However, that momentum has completely disappeared this season.

United have won just two of their opening ten competitive matches, with victories against newly promoted Ipswich Town and Champions League debutants Sabah FK.

Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Leeds United extended their winless run to six matches, leaving Carrick under increasing pressure.

Despite considerable investment in the squad, United continue to struggle defensively, waste promising opportunities and surrender control of matches.

Supporters have consequently questioned INEOS’ handling of the club since Sir Jim Ratcliffe completed his initial 27.7 per cent investment in February 2024.

The agreement handed INEOS responsibility for football operations, leading to significant changes behind the scenes.

Jason Wilcox was appointed technical director under the new regime, but his work has also attracted criticism.

Following United’s defeat against Atletico Madrid, Lisandro Martinez publicly questioned Wilcox and whether Carrick had received sufficient backing.

The defender subsequently apologised, although the controversy highlighted growing frustration surrounding United’s leadership.

Now, an INEOS chief executive has publicly addressed the future of a manager experiencing similar difficulties.

INEOS chief executive confirms managerial decision

FC Lausanne-Sport CEO Vincent Steinmann has ruled out dismissing head coach Luka Elsner despite the Swiss club’s disappointing start to the season.

Lausanne, who are also owned by INEOS, have recorded just one victory in ten league matches, scoring seven goals and conceding sixteen.

Speaking to Swiss radio station LFM, in an interview published on Lausanne-Sport’s official website, Steinmann insisted the club’s leadership remains fully behind Elsner.

He explained that Lausanne do not believe in changing managers impulsively because of disappointing results.

Steinmann also acknowledged that injuries, poor finishing and inconsistent performances have contributed to their struggles.

Lausanne currently have Manchester United midfielder Sekou Kone on loan for a second spell.

As Centre Devils previously reported, Kone scored his first senior goal before receiving the first red card of his career in September.

Steinmann’s comments concern Elsner’s position at Lausanne and do not represent a decision about Carrick’s future at Manchester United.