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, 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.