Who Could Step In If Michael Carrick Leaves Manchester United?
Michael Carrick is facing mounting pressure as Manchester United struggle through their worst start in four decades. The recent 3-0 home loss to Bournemouth extended United’s winless streak to eight games across all competitions, deepening concerns about the club's future under his leadership.
The defeat followed a harsh 4-1 loss to Como in the Champions League, where fans left Old Trafford well before the final whistle. This string of poor results has intensified calls for change, even though defender Lisandro Martinez pointed out that the issues go beyond just the manager.
United captain Bruno Fernandes openly criticized Carrick’s tactics and was subsequently benched against Bournemouth, fueling speculation about Carrick’s position. While he remains in charge for now, talks are reportedly underway about potential replacements if the club decides to part ways with him, following the departures of Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim since Ineos took over football operations.
At a recent press conference, Carrick emphasized values like sacrifice, humility, and hard work, underlining the responsibility that comes with representing Manchester United. Still, the question remains: who might the club turn to next?
Potential Candidates to Replace Michael Carrick
Eddie Howe
After stepping down from Newcastle United this summer, Eddie Howe is currently available. The 48-year-old impressed by transforming Newcastle from relegation contenders into a team competing in the Champions League and securing the club’s first domestic trophy in 70 years with the Carabao Cup in 2025. His energetic and high-intensity style would likely resonate at Old Trafford, making him the bookmakers’ favorite to take over.
Fabian Hurzeler
Brighton’s Fabian Hurzeler has gained attention for turning the Seagulls into Premier League contenders. His side notably defeated champions Arsenal 3-0 this season and also eliminated United from the Carabao Cup with a 3-2 victory at Old Trafford. Though admired at United, Brighton would demand a hefty compensation fee, which might be beyond United’s budget. Hurzeler himself remains focused on Brighton, valuing the time invested in building the club’s progress.
“I’m fully focused on my job here. I respect Michael Carrick and the job he has done at Manchester United,” Hurzeler said recently. “We have built this together over the years. To build these connections you need time.”
Julian Nagelsmann
Once considered by United earlier this year, Julian Nagelsmann remains a strong candidate. The 39-year-old German coach has experience managing Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig and has a connection with United’s director of recruitment, Christopher Vivell. Despite Germany’s early World Cup exit, Nagelsmann’s availability keeps him in the conversation.
Unai Emery
Unai Emery has revitalized Aston Villa, leading them to Champions League qualification and ending a long trophy drought with a Europa League win. Villa are keen to keep him as they rebuild, and Emery enjoys full control of his project there. The Spaniard is contracted until 2029, and United would likely face a significant compensation bill to secure him, which may be beyond their current resources.
Antonio Conte
Antonio Conte’s demanding approach might provide the intensity missing from United’s play this season. With Serie A titles at Juventus, Inter Milan, and Napoli, plus a Premier League win with Chelsea, he brings an impressive record. Conte revived Tottenham five years ago but left in 2023 after clashing with the club’s management. Though he could make an immediate impact, his outspoken nature poses risks for United’s leadership.
Conte recently denied rumors linking him to United, saying, “I will take the time I need to consider how and when to return to management. Reports about financial demands and full control are unfounded.”
Cesc Fabregas
Cesc Fabregas has emerged as one of Europe’s promising young coaches, demonstrated by Como’s historic Champions League qualification and their recent dominant win over United. However, Fabregas remains committed to Como, where he also holds a stake, and may prefer to continue developing his project before moving to a bigger club like United or Barcelona.
Another Interim Solution?
United has previously turned to interim managers during turbulent times. Before Carrick’s appointment, Under-18s manager Darren Fletcher oversaw two matches, and Ruud van Nistelrooy took charge between ten Hag’s departure and Amorim’s hiring. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer also experienced similar ups and downs. With a number of former players ready to step up, United might once again rely on an internal figure to steady the ship.
