The pressure is mounting on Michael Carrick. After a disastrous start to the season has left Manchester United in the relegation zone, speculation is rampant that a change is imminent. So, who could take the toughest job in English football?
The New Favourite: Mauricio Pochettino
Suddenly,
Mauricio Pochettino has emerged as the leading candidate to take the reins at Old Trafford. Currently the manager of the US Men's National Team, with whom he is contracted until 2030, reports suggest he would be open to a Premier League return. His experience managing in England with Southampton, Tottenham, and Chelsea makes him a known quantity. Fans remember his high-energy, pressing style at Spurs, which took them to a Champions League final. While his spells at PSG and Chelsea were less successful, his reputation for developing players and building a strong team identity remains a major draw for a club in desperate need of direction. Sources claim his US contract contains a release clause that would not be a barrier for United.
The Premier League Pro: Eddie Howe
Previously seen as a front-runner, Eddie Howe is a manager admired by figures within the United hierarchy. Currently unattached after leaving Newcastle United, Howe has extensive Premier League experience and is respected for his tactical organisation and coaching methods. He led Newcastle to their first trophy in decades with the 2025 Carabao Cup, proving he can succeed in a high-pressure environment. For a club whose defensive frailties have been consistently exposed, Howe’s structured approach could bring much-needed stability. His availability makes him a straightforward option, though some may question if he possesses the global stature traditionally expected of a Manchester United manager.
The Tactical Innovator: Julian Nagelsmann
At just 39, Julian Nagelsmann represents a potential long-term solution. A free agent since leaving the German national team after the 2026 World Cup, his name has been consistently linked with the Old Trafford job. Nagelsmann built his reputation at Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig with tactically flexible, attacking football before a move to Bayern Munich. While his time with the German champions and the national team didn't reach the expected heights, his innovative ideas and modern approach are undeniable. For a board looking to build a new project from the ground up, the young German offers a high-risk, high-reward profile that could redefine the club's on-pitch identity.
The Outside Contenders
Beyond the main trio, other names are being mentioned in connection with the job. Unai Emery is liked by INEOS, but Aston Villa are reportedly trying to sign him to a new contract to fend off interest. Antonio Conte, a serial winner, is another unattached manager, but talk surrounding him has cooled recently. Meanwhile, some reports have mentioned Brighton's Fabian Hürzeler and Stuttgart's Sebastian Hoeneß as more leftfield options, both of whom are doing impressive work at their respective clubs but lack top level Premier League experience. These candidates seem less likely at this stage but show that the United board may be casting a wide net.
What's Next for Carrick and United?
Michael Carrick’s position looks increasingly precarious. A disastrous start has seen the club win just one of their first ten league games, leaving them 18th in the table. The recent dramatic 4–4 draw with Aston Villa did little to ease the pressure. This is a sharp decline after he was given the permanent job in May following a successful interim spell where he guided the team to a third place finish last season. While supporters still chant the club legend's name, many feel a change is essential. The upcoming international break is seen as a decisive period, with a crucial match against rivals Liverpool looming on November 22.
