Manchester United are reportedly considering three high-profile managers as potential replacements for Michael Carrick, whose position has come under increasing scrutiny following a disappointing run of results.
Brighton and Hove Albion manager Fabian Hürzeler, former Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann and Italian tactician Antonio Conte have emerged as possible candidates if the Old Trafford club decides to part ways with Carrick.
The reported shortlist comes amid growing concerns about United’s performances after their 2-0 defeat to Atlético Madrid in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday. The result extended the club’s winless run to five matches across all competitions, intensifying pressure on the coaching staff.
United had already faced criticism following a 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur, with questions raised about the team’s defensive organisation, tactical approach and inability to turn promising situations into victories.
The latest defeat has also exposed tensions within the club over recruitment decisions. Defender Lisandro Martínez publicly criticised technical director Jason Wilcox over what he viewed as inadequate squad strengthening, adding to the scrutiny surrounding United’s management structure.
With results failing to meet expectations, attention has increasingly turned towards Carrick’s future and the possibility of another managerial change at Old Trafford.
Speaking on talkSPORT Breakfast, football presenter Adrian Durham suggested that Carrick could struggle to retain his position if United fail to improve their performances.
“Does it feel like an inevitability? Absolutely, that Michael Carrick will go,” Durham said.
He also questioned some of the manager’s tactical decisions during the defeat to Atlético Madrid, arguing that the changes made during the match contributed to United’s difficulties.
However, the comments represent outside opinion rather than confirmation that the club’s leadership has decided to dismiss Carrick. Manchester United have not officially announced his departure or confirmed that they have opened formal negotiations with any prospective replacement.
Among the reported candidates, Nagelsmann is understood to have support from United’s director of recruitment, Christopher Vivell. The German coach has established a reputation for his tactical flexibility and experience at leading European clubs, making him a potential option if the position becomes vacant.
Conte is another name reportedly under consideration. The Italian manager has built a reputation for demanding high standards, tactical discipline and an intense approach to competition. His previous experience winning major domestic honours could appeal to a club seeking a rapid improvement in results.
Hürzeler, meanwhile, is reportedly favoured by Wilcox. The Brighton manager has attracted attention for his work in the Premier League and his efforts to establish an organised, competitive team.
Brighton’s reported strong start to the campaign has strengthened Hürzeler’s reputation, while the club’s victory over Manchester United in the EFL Cup earlier in the season has added another dimension to the discussion surrounding his potential suitability for the Old Trafford job.
However, Hürzeler remains under contract with Brighton until 2029. Any attempt to appoint him would therefore require Manchester United to navigate the contractual and financial implications of approaching another Premier League club’s manager.
The three candidates also represent different managerial approaches. Nagelsmann is associated with tactical flexibility and structured pressing, Conte is known for his demanding methods and organised systems, while Hürzeler has developed his profile through Brighton’s style of play and competitive performances.
For United, the immediate priority remains improving results rather than making a premature decision about the dugout.
The club are scheduled to face historic rivals Leeds United in the Premier League on Sunday, a fixture that carries considerable significance because of the rivalry between the two sides and the pressure surrounding United’s current form.
A positive result could help ease some of the criticism directed at Carrick, while another disappointing performance would likely intensify questions about the direction of the team.
Manchester United have experienced several managerial transitions in the years since Sir Alex Ferguson retired, and another change would represent a significant decision for a club seeking to restore sustained competitiveness in English and European football.
Carrick’s immediate future remains uncertain, but the reported emergence of a three-man shortlist suggests that potential alternatives are being discussed as speculation around his position grows.
For now, however, the identities of the reported candidates should not be mistaken for confirmed appointments or evidence that a final decision has been made. United’s upcoming performances may prove crucial in determining whether the club continues with Carrick or considers a change in leadership.
