Michael Carrick performed excellently as a caretaker and impressed the club hierarchy, but doubts over Manchester United's performances and identity never fully disappeared.
How Carrick won the Man United job, then lost it 10 months later
Source: ESPN
Original reporting
ESPN: read the full reportRelated stories
ESPN2 outlets
Live updates, reaction as Man United sack Michael Carrick as manager
Manchester United have sacked manager Michael Carrick after a poor run of results. Follow along for the latest reaction, and speculation over who might replace him.
ESPN
The ACC and strength of schedule top this week's Anger Index
What teams have the most to be upset about over the latest CFP ranking.
ESPN
Who's on the CFP bubble after the committee's second ranking?
A conference-by-conference look at which teams are contending for the playoff, who's close and who's out.
BBC Sport
Police investigation into Vigar's death ongoing
The police investigation into Billy Vigar's death from a "significant brain injury" is unlikely to conclude for at least another two months.
ESPN2 outlets
MLB Awards Week: Misiorowski, Schlittler are unanimous Cy Young winners
Milwaukee's Jacob Misiorowski and New York's Cam Schlittler capped dominant 2026 seasons by sweeping all 30 first-place votes to win their respective Cy Young Awards.
ESPN
'It's like a light switch went on': The inside story of Pete Crow-Armstrong's MVP-worthy season
The Cubs' star center fielder hit another level midway through the 2026 season. Here's what shaped PCA's superstar turn.