Conte denies advanced talks as Man Utd search for Carrick successor

Antonio Conte has publicly refuted rumours that Manchester United are in ‘advanced negotiations’ to replace Michael Carrick, saying no concrete talks have taken place despite the club’s recent 4‑0 Champions League defeat to Como and a record of only two wins from eleven matches this season.

Manchester United under pressure

Michael Carrick’s position has become precarious after Tuesday’s 4‑0 loss to Como in the Champions League. Under his stewardship United have managed just two victories in eleven matches across all competitions. Nevertheless, the club confirmed Carrick will still lead the side for this weekend’s league clash with AFC Bournemouth.

Other candidates in the frame

Media reports have linked several high‑profile managers with the vacancy, including Eddie Howe, Julian Nagelsmann and Unai Emery. The shortlist also recalls Conte’s own résumé, which features spells at Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur – the latter often referred to simply as Hotspur. Both clubs remain part of the broader conversation about who could succeed Carrick.

Talks and alleged demands

On Thursday a source claimed Manchester United had opened discussions with Conte, suggesting he had made two specific demands. Conte has since rejected those claims, insisting there are no advanced negotiations underway. He added that any future talks would only begin when the conditions are mutually satisfactory.

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“My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage,” Conte wrote on Instagram. “Following a wonderful and successful spell in charge of Napoli, I will take the time I need to consider how and when to return to management.”

He continued: “I have read reports of financial demands and requests for full control that I have supposedly already made to the clubs mentioned, as well as reservations about what has been described as my ‘strong personality’. These reports are unfounded, as there is currently no concrete basis for such assessments.”

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Future prospects and market buzz

Conte’s latest statement comes after a period out of work since leaving Serie A giants Napoli at the end of last season. While Juventus have also been mentioned as a possible destination, the Italian coach says he will decide only when the right conditions align. Until then, speculation about his next move remains just that – speculation.