Wilcox backs Eddie Howe as Manchester United seek Carrick’s DONE exit
Director of football Jason Wilcox has told Manchester United co‑owners that Michael Carrick is DONE, after the club’s 3‑0 home defeat to Bournemouth left United third loss in four games, sitting 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone.
Sources expect Carrick’s dismissal before Man Utd travel to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge this weekend. The defeat was United’s third in the last four fixtures, heightening pressure on the board. The loss left United 16th in the league, just a point clear of relegation. TEAMtalk reported that the board is weighing the options ahead of the Chelsea fixture.
Wilcox’s preferred candidate
Jason Wilcox has identified Eddie Howe as his top choice. The 48‑year‑old is currently out of work, meaning United would not need to buy out an existing contract. Wilcox reportedly briefed co‑owners the Glazers and Sir Jim Ratcliffe at Old Trafford on the situation, underscoring the urgency.
Howe’s spell at Newcastle saw the club become regular European‑qualification contenders, earning him a reputation as one of the league’s respected managers. His tenure at Newcastle included guiding the club through a period of significant progress. That experience is seen as a key factor in his favour.
Rio Ferdinand warns United’s woes run deeper than Carrick’s tenure
Other candidates and costs
Julian Nagelsmann remains on United’s shortlist, with head of recruitment Christopher Vivell reportedly championing his case. The German previously flirted with a Chelsea job before turning down the offer. Vivell’s support is said to stem from Nagelsmann’s recent proximity to a Chelsea appointment.
Unai Emery is also linked, but Aston Villa would demand about £20m in compensation, making him a pricier alternative to Howe. By contrast, Howe would be less expensive to bring in than Emery, whose compensation is estimated at around £20m.
The Bournemouth side that inflicted the 3‑0 loss was Howe’s former club before his move to Newcastle, adding an ironic twist to the search. That connection may influence United’s assessment of Howe’s suitability given his familiarity with the opposition.
United’s board must decide quickly whether to install Howe before the West London clash, leaving the club’s future direction still undecided. No official decision has been announced, leaving fans and pundits speculating on the next move.