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23 Leading Candidates to Replace Michael Carrick as Manchester United Manager
Amir Azimi
Daily News

23 Leading Candidates to Replace Michael Carrick as Manchester United Manager

Manchester United's Search for a New Manager

Michael Carrick was given the interim manager role at Manchester United in January, and his initial impact was promising. He led the team to more Premier League points than any other manager since taking over, securing a return to the Champions League. This success earned him a long-term appointment. Yet, the start of the 2026/27 season has been disappointing, with just one win from six league matches.

The Red Devils suffered a home defeat to Manchester City despite the visitors playing with 10 men early on. They also squandered a 2-0 half-time lead against Brighton in the Carabao Cup, losing 3-2, becoming the first United team in 50 years to lose at home after leading by two goals at half-time. Further setbacks included blowing a 1-0 lead at home to Tottenham, who were down to 10 men, conceding an equalizer in stoppage time. A recent 2-0 loss to Atletico Madrid sparked criticism from Lisandro Martinez about the club's lack of investment, increasing pressure on Carrick. SkyBet has listed 23 possible replacements should the situation worsen.

Long-Shot Candidates

  • Lionel Scaloni (Argentina) – 80/1
  • Ange Postecoglou (Al-Nassr) – 80/1
  • David Moyes (Everton) – 80/1
  • Roberto Mancini (Italy) – 66/1
  • Ralf Rangnick (Austria) – 66/1
  • Diego Simeone (Atletico Madrid) – 50/1
  • Daniel Farke (Leeds United) – 50/1
  • Brendan Rodgers (Al Qadsiah) – 50/1
  • Sebastian Hoeness (VfB Stuttgart) – 50/1

These names reflect varying backgrounds, including those with Premier League experience and others managing abroad. Moyes remains an unlikely pick despite past connections, while Rangnick is thought to have no appetite for a return. Simeone’s defense-focused style might divide fans. Farke and Rodgers have both impressed in their respective roles but would represent a gamble at this level.

Mid-Range Options

  • Luis Enrique (PSG) – 33/1
  • Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (Unattached) – 25/1
  • Mauricio Pochettino (USA) – 25/1
  • Roberto Martinez (Unattached) – 22/1
  • Darren Fletcher (Man Utd U18s) – 20/1
  • Carlo Ancelotti (Brazil) – 20/1
  • Gareth Southgate (Unattached) – 14/1

Luis Enrique has enjoyed tremendous success at PSG but his environment is very different from United's current challenges. Former player and manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer remains popular with fans, as does Mauricio Pochettino, who has been admired by the club for some time. Darren Fletcher might be a short-term fix, while Gareth Southgate is a free agent with a strong reputation for team-building, though club football presents new challenges.

Top Contenders

  • Unai Emery (Aston Villa) – 14/1
  • Thomas Tuchel (England) – 14/1
  • Kieran McKenna (Unattached) – 10/1
  • Julian Nagelsmann (Unattached) – 13/2
  • Antonio Conte (Napoli) – 5/1
  • Fabian Hurzeler (Brighton & Hove Albion) – 5/1
  • Eddie Howe (Unattached) – 2/1

Unai Emery has proven himself in the Premier League with Aston Villa, recovering from a tough Arsenal spell. Many supporters see him as a fitting replacement. Thomas Tuchel, currently managing England, carries good odds but is unlikely to depart soon. Kieran McKenna, once part of United's coaching staff, might be considered due to familiarity. Julian Nagelsmann brings Bundesliga-winning experience and is available after leaving Germany's national setup. Antonio Conte is renowned for quick success, while young Fabian Hurzeler has impressed at Brighton. The favourite is Eddie Howe, who recently left Newcastle and is expected to re-enter management swiftly.

All betting odds are provided by SkyBet and were current as of October 14, 2026.

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