Manchester United are assessing Michael Carrick’s position and potential managerial replacements. Carrick is under intense scrutiny after a poor start to the domestic campaign, with Manchester United due to play Aston Villa on Sunday.
Carrick remains in charge
Carrick remains Manchester United’s manager. He survived crisis talks after Manchester United’s 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth, while a Champions League comeback against Roma briefly eased the pressure on him.
TEAMtalk reported that a meeting was held at Manchester United’s Carrington training headquarters involving Jason Wilcox, Omar Berrada, Christopher Vivell and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who joined by video link. TEAMtalk reported that it was decided at the meeting that Carrick would be given until the forthcoming international break to make his case.
The permanent-manager plan
TEAMtalk reported that Manchester United are reluctant to appoint another interim manager and leave the club in a position of uncertainty for any length of time.
Sky Sports reported that, if Manchester United dismiss Carrick, Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada are determined to appoint a permanent manager rather than rely on another interim appointment.
Potential replacements
The Independent reported that Sebastian Hoeness is being considered as a potential replacement for Carrick. Hoeness is the manager of Stuttgart.
TEAMtalk reported that Unai Emery has been viewed as a leading option, but he has little interest in leaving Aston Villa and is progressing towards a new contract. Julian Nagelsmann and Antonio Conte have been discussed as potential options if Manchester United part company with Carrick.
There is currently no unanimous agreement at Manchester United over who would represent the best appointment. TEAMtalk reported that Cesc Fabregas’s name has featured prominently in discussions about potential replacements, and intermediaries have been spoken to about his current situation. Fabregas is the head coach of Como.
Carrick on the team’s performances
Following the Roma win, Carrick explained: “It was a fantastic night as a one-off night”. He also said: “It was a good night for us all, but nothing has been achieved yet. It's one moment we need to use to move forward.”
Carrick also highlighted positive spells against Chelsea as proof of underlying progress, saying: “When you watch the game back, the first half wasn't so bad”. He added: “We're showing signs of improvement, no doubt, and we need to take that forward.”
