Manchester United consider Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann as Michael Carrick’s future comes under threat

Manchester United are assessing potential replacements for Michael Carrick after a difficult start to the season left the manager’s position in doubt.

Former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann are among the leading candidates being considered, according to the BBC. Both men are aware of Manchester United’s interest in appointing one of them should the club decide to part company with Carrick.

Howe would be open to taking charge at Old Trafford if Carrick leaves, while Nagelsmann is expected to become available after completing his role with Germany following the World Cup.

Carrick left Manchester United’s training ground at Carrington at about 17:00 GMT on Monday after holding talks about his future with the club.

Unai Emery, manager of Aston Villa, is also highly regarded within Manchester United. However, his existing contract with Aston Villa could make negotiations over an appointment more complicated.

Antonio Conte, formerly of Napoli, is another name under consideration. Reports suggest the Italian is interested in the role and open to returning to management after leaving Napoli in May. Conte has also been linked with a possible return to Juventus.

Manchester United have taken only 7 points from their opening 8 Premier League matches, leaving them 16th in the table and one point clear of the relegation places.

If Carrick is dismissed, the club will need to appoint either a permanent manager or head coach for the eighth time since Sir Alex Ferguson left in 2013. Ferguson’s departure followed Manchester United’s most recent Premier League title triumph.

The club’s search for alternatives reflects the seriousness of its early-season form, although no decision on Carrick’s position has been confirmed. The immediate focus remains on the discussions surrounding his future and whether Manchester United will make a change to their coaching staff.