Disastrous Man Utd search stalls as INEOS targets disappoint
At Old Trafford, Manchester United supporters watched their side concede seven goals and score just one across a Champions League loss to Como and a Premier League defeat by Bournemouth, sparking speculation that Michael Carrick would be dismissed. Yet INEOS chiefs have kept the former midfielder in charge, a decision that has drawn intense scrutiny.
INEOS disappointment with targets
INEOS officials examined five managerial candidates and found three of them lacking, prompting the club to retain Carrick despite widespread expectations of his sacking. The disappointment stems from the underwhelming appeal of Antonio Conte, Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann, according to a United correspondent.
Following the Bournemouth loss, fans turned their anger on owners and players rather than Carrick, chanting his name as he walked down the tunnel while booing the team and shouting against INEOS, the Glazers and director of football Jason Wilcox.
Reports had suggested Carrick would be dismissed before United’s Saturday clash with Chelsea, with Eddie Howe positioned as Jason Wilcox’s primary replacement. However, journalists Laurie Whitwell and Mike Keegan say the club will give Carrick the chance to reverse fortunes, a view that surprised many observers.
A well‑placed source warned that “the best ones won’t come”, while a United correspondent added that decision‑makers are not fully sold on the available coaches – Conte, Howe and Nagelsmann. The same source hinted that Fabian Hurzeler and Unai Emery sit at the top of United’s shortlist should Carrick depart.
Gary Neville surprised United retain Carrick before Chelsea showdown
Intermediaries have already approached Hurzeler, who wishes to remain at Brighton, and United are reported to be prepared to meet Newcastle’s compensation demand for Howe at between 3 million and 6 million. Technical director Jason Wilcox believes Howe can restore success, though doubts remain about the 48‑year‑old’s personality for Old Trafford.
Howe emerges as preferred option
Wilcox’s favour for Howe grew after the former Newcastle boss resigned in the summer, leaving him unattached and theoretically reachable. Howe’s tenure at Newcastle saw the club return to the Champions League and capture the Carabao Cup, their first major trophy in seventy years.
Carrick’s record this season includes only two wins from twelve matches in all competitions – victories over Sabah in the Champions League and Ipswich Town in the Premier League – while the team has suffered a string of miserable results. Captain Bruno Fernandes was left on the bench for the Bournemouth loss after publicly criticising Carrick’s tactics, and defender Lisandro Martinez has also aired grievances.
Carrick stays as United head coach despite sack rumours
United’s supporters have lambasted the decision to stick with Carrick, and former players have joined the chorus of criticism. With the club’s future direction still uncertain, the possibility that Carrick’s days are numbered looms large as INEOS continues to search for a manager capable of ending the current turmoil.