Manchester United keep Carrick despite Conte ‘agreement’ rumours

Manchester United have reportedly decided to retain Michael Carrick as head coach, even as Italian media claim Antonio Conte is reaching an agreement to succeed him. Carrick remains under pressure after a poor start to the 2026/27 season, with United sitting 13th in the Premier League.

Man Utd have won only one of their first six league matches and have already exited the Carabao Cup. The early cup exit adds to the scrutiny on the side. The solitary victory leaves them 13th in the Premier League, a stark contrast to the expectations that followed last season’s third‑place finish.

That third‑place finish, achieved after the sacking of Ruben Amorim, secured a Champions League spot and earned Carrick a permanent managerial contract. The campaign exceeded most forecasts, turning a mid‑table club into a European qualifier and cementing his status as the club’s long‑term boss.

Club insiders back Carrick

Mick Brown, former chief scout, told Football Insider that Carrick still has ‘plenty of credit in the bank’ for last season’s achievements. He highlighted the turnaround that saw United climb into the Champions League places and argued that the board still values Carrick’s contribution.

Carrick praises De Ligt, but United waits for his return

Football Insider also reported that there are ‘no immediate plans’ to dismiss Carrick. A source said, ‘From what I’m told, there are no plans in place for him to be sacked as things stand, it’s not something they are currently considering.’ The board appears keen to give him time.

Conte link fuels replacement rumours

An Italian report claims ex‑Chelsea and Tottenham boss Antonio Conte, who previously managed Napoli, is ‘reaching an agreement’ with the Red Devils to take over from Carrick. The story has intensified speculation about a possible managerial overhaul and suggests the club may be preparing a contingency.

Journalist Graeme Bailey said the message from Old Trafford is that Carrick is not under pressure, noting the club are ‘clearly in 12th at this point’ and that expectations of a top‑four finish are a stretch after only five games. He added that ‘they weren’t putting the pressure on him to have a title charge this season.’

With five league fixtures behind them, United know that a run of wins is essential to avoid louder calls for Carrick’s head. The board has indicated they will give him time to reverse the trend, but the margin for error is narrowing.