Who Could Step in for Michael Carrick as Manchester United Manager?
Michael Carrick is quickly running out of chances to keep his position at Manchester United. The club is preparing to look for its fourth permanent manager in just three years since minority owners Ineos took over football operations. Carrick had shown promise during his interim tenure last season but has struggled amid the club's worst start in four decades.
Recent defeats have only increased the pressure. A heavy 4-1 loss to Como in the Champions League followed by a 3-0 home defeat against Bournemouth saw fans leaving Old Trafford early. Defender Lisandro Martinez pointed to deeper issues beyond the coach, but Carrick’s tactics have come under fire, even from captain Bruno Fernandes, who was benched against Bournemouth.
The club has started discussing potential successors should Carrick step down, following the exits of Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim under the Ineos regime. Carrick himself emphasized sacrifice, humility, and hard work during a lengthy pre-match press conference recently, highlighting the values he believes represent United.
Potential Replacements for Carrick
Eddie Howe
After stepping away from Newcastle United this summer, Eddie Howe is available and could be tempted back by the chance to lead a club like United. At 48, Howe impressed by taking Newcastle from relegation candidates to their best Premier League finish in 20 years and securing their first domestic trophy in seven decades. His teams played energetic, high-intensity football that might suit Old Trafford well. Bookmakers currently favor him for the role.
Fabian Hurzeler
Brighton's success this season owes much to the 33-year-old Fabian Hurzeler, who transformed the Seagulls into serious competitors. His side’s 3-0 win over Arsenal and a 3-2 Carabao Cup victory over United showed his tactical skill. While admired at Old Trafford, Brighton would demand a hefty compensation fee, and United may hesitate given financial constraints. Hurzeler is focused on his project at Brighton, where club decisions have been steady and consistent — a sharp contrast with United's current environment.
"I'm fully focused on my job here. I have respect for Michael Carrick and what he's done at Manchester United. I'm privileged to be part of Brighton's journey," Hurzeler said.
Julian Nagelsmann
Julian Nagelsmann, once considered by United after Ruben Amorim’s departure, remains a strong candidate. The 39-year-old former Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig coach would likely be interested, and he shares a connection with United's recruitment director Christopher Vivell through their Red Bull ties. Despite Germany’s disappointing World Cup exit, Nagelsmann’s reputation as a tactical innovator holds firm.
Unai Emery
Having led Aston Villa to Champions League qualification and won the Europa League, Unai Emery has proven his ability to rebuild. Villa’s overhaul under him continues, and they’re keen to keep him. Emery enjoys full control at Villa Park, which might not be the case at Old Trafford, and United would face a compensation fee to secure his services. Contracted until 2029, Emery’s price tag could exceed United’s budget.
Antonio Conte
The fiery Antonio Conte could inject urgency and intensity that United’s performances have lacked. With Serie A titles at Juventus, Inter Milan, Napoli, and a Premier League title at Chelsea, his experience is vast. Conte revived Tottenham five years ago and brought them back into the Champions League, something now critical for United. Yet, his outspoken nature and past clashes with management make him a risky choice.
Conte recently dismissed rumors about negotiations with United, calling such reports speculative and saying he will return to management only when conditions are right.
Cesc Fabregas
The former midfielder Cesc Fabregas is making waves as a young coach in Europe, demonstrated by Como’s Champions League qualification and recent thrashing of United. Still committed to Como, where he has ownership stakes, Fabregas seems focused on long-term growth rather than an immediate leap to a big club. His rising profile suggests a patient approach to future moves, possibly back to one of his former clubs like Barcelona.
Another Interim Option?
United has frequently turned to former players in tough moments. Before Carrick, Under-18s manager Darren Fletcher briefly took charge, as did Ruud van Nistelrooy after ten Hag’s exit. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer also experienced similar cycles. These insiders remind the squad of the club’s heritage and values. Maybe it’s time for Fletcher to step in again or for another familiar face to take temporary charge.
