Next Man United Carrick under fire, who may be replaced after Como loss

Michael Carrick is under intense pressure at Manchester United after a 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League on Wednesday night, a result that has left the club with its worst start to a season in 40 years and prompted Ineos to accelerate the search for a new permanent manager.

Pressure after the Como defeat

Although Carrick impressed during his interim spell last season, criticism has mounted from captain Bruno Fernandes over his tactics and from defender Lisandro Martinez, who highlighted deeper problems after United’s earlier loss to Atletico Madrid. The defeat at Como has been described as dismal, and the manager’s future now hangs by a thread despite still holding the board’s confidence for the upcoming Bournemouth match.

Shortlist of five candidates

The Athletic United have already compiled a secret shortlist of five possible successors. Sources within the club name Eddie Howe as the leading option, with Julian Nagelsmann, Antonio Conte, Unai Emery and Fabian Hurzeler also in the mix.

Eddie Howe emerges as favourite

Howe, 48, left Newcastle United after five successful years, citing a need for a break from management. He guided Newcastle from the relegation zone to the club’s highest Premier League finish in two decades and secured the first domestic trophy in 70 years, also taking the side into the Champions League twice. Former United sporting director Dan Ashworth had recommended Howe after Erik ten Hag’s dismissal, and he is currently the bookmakers’ favourite.

Fabian Hurzeler, 33, has turned Brighton into a surprise Premier League package, delivering a 3-0 victory over Arsenal and a 3-2 Carabao Cup win that knocked United out at Old Trafford. While he is admired at Old Trafford, Brighton would demand significant compensation, and United may lack the cash to meet it.

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Julian Nagelsmann, 39, was on United’s radar when they dismissed Ruben Amorim earlier in the year and again after the World Cup, despite Germany’s last‑32 exit to Paraguay. United’s director of recruitment Christopher Vivell, who worked with Nagelsmann at Red Bull, remains keen on the German, who is currently available.

Unai Emery has guided Aston Villa to Champions League qualification and an Europa League triumph, enjoying full control over his project at Villa Park. However, his contract runs until 2029, meaning United would need to pay compensation that could stretch their budget.

Antonio Conte, 57, brings a demanding style and a CV that includes Serie A titles with Juventus, Inter Milan and Napoli, as well as a Premier League crown with Chelsea. He is praised for instantly improving Tottenham five years ago, but his sharp tongue and potential for explosive conflicts with the board raise concerns about his fit at Old Trafford.

Wilcox backs Eddie Howe as Manchester United seek Carrick’s DONE exit

While Carrick will remain on the bench for Sunday’s home game against Bournemouth, the club’s leadership is already weighing these options, aware that the choice will shape United’s campaign and its ability to recover from the historic slump.