Manchester United weigh Carrick’s future after eight-game winless run

Manchester United are reviewing their managerial options as pressure grows on Michael Carrick following a run of poor results, with four potential replacements reportedly under consideration.

According to sources cited by ESPN, the club reassessed Carrick’s position after Sunday’s 3-0 defeat by Bournemouth at Old Trafford. The result came only days after United suffered a 4-1 loss to Como in the Champions League.

United have now gone eight matches without a win in all competitions and are 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation places.

The names being considered include former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann, the former Germany head coach. Kieran McKenna, formerly of Ipswich Town, is also among the candidates after leaving a positive impression on United officials during discussions in the summer of 2024.

Those talks took place before the club decided to retain Erik ten Hag.

Antonio Conte is another option being highlighted. The Italian left Napoli in the summer and, according to the sources, would be prepared to speak to Manchester United if the club approached him.

United had assessed several managers before handing Carrick a two-year contract in May, following his successful spell in temporary charge.

However, the club is now reported to be preparing for the possibility of ending his tenure, although no formal decision has been made.

Carrick admitted after the defeat by Bournemouth that he did not know what the future held for him.

“I completely understand the situation and, honestly, I am not expecting anything specific. I will continue working as normal,” he said.

Manchester United’s listed schedule includes Bournemouth in League Cup action on 28 October 2026. Aston Villa and Chelsea are due to meet in the Premier League on 31 October 2026, with Manchester United also listed in the same fixture information.