Manchester United have reportedly contacted former France national team coach Didier Deschamps as the club explores possible managerial options amid growing uncertainty over Michael Carrick’s future at Old Trafford.

The report, published on Thursday by French football outlet Foot Mercato, said United had approached the 58-year-old in recent days to assess his willingness to take charge of the Premier League side should the club decide to part ways with Carrick, blueprint reports.

The report was written by French transfer journalist Santi Aouna.

However, the contact does not mean that Deschamps has been appointed or that United have made a formal offer to him.

Deschamps not enthusiastic about United job

According to Foot Mercato, the former France manager is not particularly enthusiastic about the prospect of taking over at Manchester United, given the club’s current difficulties, criticism of its leadership and concerns surrounding its recent transfer activities.

Although Deschamps is reportedly willing to listen to offers, he is in no hurry to return to management and could wait until next summer before accepting another job.

The Frenchman has been without a coaching position since leaving the France national team following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, bringing an end to his 14-year spell in charge of Les Bleus.

During his time with France, Deschamps led the country to the 2018 FIFA World Cup title in Russia, while also guiding the team to the final of the 2022 tournament in Qatar, where they lost to Argentina on penalties.

He also won the 2020-21 UEFA Nations League with France and reached the final of the 2016 European Championship.

Carrick’s future remains uncertain

The approach to Deschamps comes as United continue to assess Carrick’s position following a difficult run of results.

Carrick, who was appointed permanent head coach in May 2026 on a two-year contract, has come under increasing pressure after the club’s disappointing performances in recent weeks.

United’s 3-2 Champions League victory over AS Roma on Tuesday offered some relief after they came from two goals down, but questions remain over the team’s consistency and direction.

Sky Sports reported on Thursday that Carrick still enjoys some support within the club’s hierarchy, although the management is considering alternatives should it decide to make a change.

The report also said United were not planning to appoint another interim manager if Carrick leaves, preferring to identify a permanent successor as part of a longer-term strategy.

The club is reportedly considering other coaching options, with Julian Nagelsmann and Fabian Hürzeler among the names linked with the position. Unai Emery has also been associated with the vacancy, although he is reportedly close to agreeing a new contract with Aston Villa.

Deschamps’ return to club football

A move to Old Trafford would represent a return to club management for Deschamps, who has not coached a club side since leaving Marseille in 2012.

Before taking charge of France in 2012, he managed Monaco, Juventus and Marseille, winning the French Ligue 1 title with the latter during the 2009-10 season.

His experience also includes leading Monaco to the 2004 UEFA Champions League final and guiding Juventus back to Serie A following the club’s relegation in the aftermath of the Calciopoli scandal.

While his international achievements have made him an attractive name in the managerial market, his lack of recent day-to-day club management experience could be a consideration for any potential move to the Premier League.

For now, United’s reported contact with Deschamps appears to be part of the club’s wider search for alternatives rather than confirmation of an imminent managerial change.