Man Utd’s Carrick under fire as Jacobs lists five possible successors

Michael Carrick arrived at Manchester United as a surprise caretaker hero, guiding the Red Devils to a third‑place Premier League finish and Champions League qualification, yet just weeks into his permanent spell he faces mounting criticism and a reported lack of full backing, with the club already scouting five possible successors.

Appointment after Amorim's dismissal

Towards the end of last season Carrick was appointed permanent Manchester United manager after exceeding expectations as caretaker following the sacking of Ruben Amorim. The club’s hierarchy felt compelled to retain him, given the scarcity of top‑level alternatives.

His appointment came after he steered United to a third‑place finish in the Premier League, securing a Champions League spot. That achievement initially appeared to cement his position despite the limited pool of candidates.

However, the summer transfer window left United noticeably thin, and Carrick’s start to the new campaign has been uneven. In the first six games across all competitions United have recorded only two victories. The side has also endured back‑to‑back defeats, a 1‑0 loss to a ten‑man Manchester City and a 3‑2 Carabao Cup exit to Brighton after leading 2‑0.

The recent slump has intensified pressure on Carrick as United prepare to meet Fulham in their final match before the international break. Dropping more points could ruin any chance of climbing the table.

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Replacement shortlist and due diligence

Reporter Ben Jacobs says United’s hierarchy are already conducting due‑diligence on potential replacements. “I’m not sure if there is universal backing, to be perfectly honest,” Jacobs told United Stand when asked about Carrick’s support.

He added, “Manchester United are doing their due diligence in case they have to make a change.” Jacobs then outlined five names that could become the NEXT manager.

Julian Nagelsmann was at the World Cup and later quit, while Thomas Tuchel, who had extended his contract, may still be linked to a home Euros role. Eddie Howe stays at Newcastle United and Kieran McKenna is employed elsewhere. Unai Emery, praised at Aston Villa, has not signalled a desire to leave, yet the changed landscape at Villa could make him a viable option.

Manchester United weigh McTominay return as Carrick battles early woes

The contrast between Carrick’s early triumphs and the present uncertainty underscores United’s crossroads. The club now faces a decisive moment as it weighs whether to persist with Carrick or move on to one of the listed candidates.