Who Could Take Over as Manchester United Manager After Michael Carrick?
Michael Carrick is rapidly running out of time to secure his position at Manchester United. The club is preparing to search for their fourth permanent manager in just three years since minority owners Ineos took charge of football operations. Carrick impressed during his interim stint last season but now faces immense scrutiny after the worst start to a season in 40 years for United.
The pressure grew following a harsh 4-1 loss to Como in the Champions League, quickly followed by a 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth, which saw fans leaving Old Trafford in large numbers during the second half. The team’s issues go beyond coaching, as defender Lisandro Martinez pointed out after a recent loss to Atletico Madrid. Yet, Carrick appears to be on the edge after criticism from captain Bruno Fernandes, who was then benched against Bournemouth.
Although Carrick remained in charge during the Bournemouth defeat, the club has already considered possible successors in case he leaves following the departures of Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim under Ineos leadership. At a Friday pre-match press conference, Carrick emphasized sacrifice, humility, and hard work, highlighting the values of representing United.
Potential Candidates to Replace Carrick
Eddie Howe
Howe, 48, left Newcastle United this summer by surprise, seeking a break from management. But an offer from Old Trafford would likely tempt him back. He transformed Newcastle from relegation candidates into a team that finished at their highest Premier League position in 20 years and won their first domestic trophy in seven decades. Howe’s energetic, high-intensity style earned two Champions League qualifications and remains highly regarded in English football. Bookmakers currently list him as the favourite.
Fabian Hurzeler
The 33-year-old German coach of Brighton has turned heads with his team’s performances this season. Brighton’s 3-0 win over Arsenal and a 3-2 Carabao Cup victory over United at Old Trafford showcased Hurzeler's modern tactical approach. Despite admiration from inside Old Trafford, Brighton would demand a significant fee, which might be beyond United's budget. Hurzeler praised Carrick and expressed his commitment to Brighton, highlighting the importance of building strong connections over time.
"I’m fully focused on my job here. I have a lot of respect for Michael Carrick and the job he has done at Manchester United... We have built this [together] over the years. It’s a people business," Hurzeler said.
Julian Nagelsmann
The former Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig coach was reportedly considered when United dismissed Ruben Amorim earlier this year. Now available again, the 39-year-old would naturally be interested in managing United. The club's recruitment director, Christopher Vivell, has previously worked with Nagelsmann at Red Bull, strengthening this potential link.
Unai Emery
Emery has revitalized Aston Villa, securing Champions League qualification and ending their trophy drought with a Europa League win. Villa would want to keep him, especially after reshaping their squad. Emery enjoys full control at Villa Park, a freedom unlikely at United. Under contract until 2029, any move would require compensation, possibly putting him beyond United’s financial reach.
Antonio Conte
Conte’s reputation for intensity and demanding standards could address United’s recent lack of urgency. With Serie A titles at Juventus, Inter Milan, Napoli, and a Premier League title at Chelsea, his credentials are impressive. He revived Tottenham by guiding them back to the Champions League five years ago. Yet, Conte is known for blunt criticism of club management, seen in his dramatic exit from Tottenham in 2023. United would take a risk hiring him.
Conte denied ongoing talks with clubs and dismissed rumors about his demands, stating, "I will take the time I need to consider how and when to return to management."
Cesc Fabregas
Fabregas, once a star midfielder at Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea, is building a promising coaching career with Como. His team shocked United with a Champions League win recently. Though committed to Como, where he owns a stake, Fabregas’s rising profile could lead him to bigger opportunities eventually, perhaps at one of his former clubs.
Another Interim Option
United has repeatedly turned to former players for temporary fixes. Before Carrick, Under-18s coach Darren Fletcher led the team briefly, and before him, Ruud van Nistelrooy stepped in after Erik ten Hag’s departure. Even Ole Gunnar Solskjaer experienced similar cycles of ups and downs. There are plenty of ex-players ready to remind the squad what wearing the badge means. Maybe Fletcher will be called upon again.
