Manchester United have started identifying potential replacements for head coach Michael Carrick amid growing uncertainty over his future following a disappointing run of results.
Eddie Howe, Antonio Conte and Julian Nagelsmann are among the managers understood to be interested in the Old Trafford position. Howe, the former Newcastle United manager, is available after leaving St James’ Park during the close season and is reportedly open to returning to management with United.
Former Chelsea head coach Conte and ex-Germany manager Nagelsmann are also among those who could be considered.
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery and Brighton head coach Fabian Hurzeler are highly regarded by senior figures at United, although persuading either to leave their current club would be difficult.
Carrick Expected to Lead Team Against Bournemouth
Carrick is expected to remain in charge for Manchester United’s Premier League match against Bournemouth on Sunday, despite the uncertainty surrounding his position.
Sources indicate that the 45-year-old has continued working as normal and has not been informed of any imminent managerial change following United’s 4-1 defeat by Italian side Como on Wednesday.
The loss was followed by criticism from captain Bruno Fernandes, who questioned Carrick’s tactics after the Champions League match.
United’s players have been given Thursday off, while the club has yet to confirm arrangements for Friday’s planned news conference ahead of the Bournemouth fixture.
Senior Figures Divided Over Carrick’s Future
There are differing views among senior figures at Manchester United over whether another managerial change would help the club recover from its struggles.
Some believe the frequent changes of manager in recent years have failed to reverse United’s decline. They also feel Carrick has been undermined by players who have not performed to the expected standard.
Others recognise the progress made by Carrick and his squad last season and believe he should be given more time to improve results.
Carrick was appointed permanently in May after recording 12 wins in 17 matches during his interim spell and helping United secure a return to the Champions League after a two-year absence.
Although some voices opposed his appointment, many supporters believed the former United midfielder had earned the opportunity to lead the team.
Poor Results Put Carrick Under Increasing Pressure
Manchester United’s current form has intensified questions about the direction of the club.
The team have recorded only two wins in their past 11 matches and are without a victory in seven consecutive games. The run is their worst since the 2015-16 season, when an eight-match winless streak brought Louis van Gaal close to dismissal.
United have struggled with injuries, inconsistent performances and a lack of attacking effectiveness. They have also managed only one clean sheet throughout the season.
Concerns about the team’s passion, intensity and desire have persisted, while poor results have contributed to a decline in confidence.
Player Criticism Adds to Club’s Problems
Tensions have increased following public criticism from senior players.
Experienced defender Lisandro Martinez has questioned the club’s recruitment, while Fernandes has challenged Carrick’s tactical approach following the defeat by Como.
Former United manager Erik ten Hag has also recently spoken about what he described as “broken promises” and a “toxic culture” during an interview with The Athletic.
The comments have added to concerns about discipline, leadership and the club’s long-term direction.
Some senior figures believe the squad must accept considerable responsibility for the poor performances, even as questions remain about recruitment decisions.
United’s summer transfer strategy has attracted scrutiny, particularly over the decision to prioritise midfield reinforcements rather than additional striking support for Benjamin Sesko or competition at left-back.
United’s Recent Managerial Decisions Under Scrutiny
Manchester United have backed a manager publicly and financially during the summer for the third consecutive year, but the investment has not produced the expected results.
Ruben Amorim remained in charge until January, but a League Cup defeat by League Two side Grimsby Town in August and a poor performance against Brentford the following month weakened his position. His subsequent criticism of the club’s hierarchy further complicated his future.
In the summer of 2024, United considered several candidates, including Thomas Tuchel and Roberto De Zerbi, before deciding to retain Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman was dismissed in October.
The club now faces another decision over whether to persist with Carrick or appoint a new head coach.
Timing Complicates Any Immediate Decision
The proximity of Sunday’s match against Bournemouth could make an immediate managerial change difficult.
When Amorim was dismissed in January, former United midfielder Darren Fletcher took temporary charge for two matches. Fletcher later returned to coaching the Under-18 team, while Jonny Evans and Travis Binnion remained with the senior squad after assisting him.
United have a clear midweek period following their EFL Cup defeat by Brighton, potentially giving the club time to assess the situation without the immediate demands of another fixture.
However, it remains unclear whether the club will use that period to make a decision on Carrick’s position.
Bournemouth Match Could Prove Significant
United face a Bournemouth side that recorded its first Premier League victory under new manager Marco Rose last week.
Bournemouth drew 4-4 with United at Old Trafford last season and had won 3-0 on each of their two previous visits before that encounter.
The upcoming fixture therefore presents another challenge for Carrick as he attempts to halt United’s poor run.
Whether he remains in charge for the match, and how long he might continue afterwards, remains uncertain as Manchester United consider their next steps.
