Manchester United have appointed experienced communications professional Emily Brammeier as the club continues to face growing criticism over the men’s team’s disappointing start to the 2026–27 campaign under manager Michael Carrick. Manchester Evening News reported the appointment on Monday, October 19, 2026, amid increasing scrutiny of the club’s performances and leadership.

Carrick earned the permanent managerial position after an impressive interim spell last season, when United finished third in the Premier League and secured qualification for the Champions League. His early success raised expectations that the team would make significant progress under his full-time leadership.

However, United have struggled to maintain that momentum this season, recording just two victories in their first ten competitive matches. Their wins came against Sabah FK, a relatively inexperienced participant in the Champions League, and newly promoted Ipswich Town. The results have intensified concerns about the team’s ability to compete consistently against stronger opposition.

Performances have been marked by missed chances, defensive errors and an inability to protect leads. United’s difficulties continued in Europe, where they suffered a 2–0 defeat to Atletico Madrid after conceding a late equaliser against Tottenham in their previous outing.

A subsequent 1–1 draw with Leeds United extended the club’s winless run to six matches, increasing pressure on Carrick and prompting renewed speculation about potential replacements. Supporters and commentators have questioned whether he can reverse the team’s fortunes quickly enough to retain confidence from the club’s leadership and fan base.

Antonio Conte has emerged in the discussion surrounding possible alternatives. The Italian manager has won major league titles during spells with Juventus, Chelsea, Inter Milan and Napoli. Reports have suggested that representatives connected to Conte have shown interest in the Manchester United position, although no appointment has been confirmed.

Meanwhile, Brammeier has officially joined United as manager of communications for the women’s team. She brings a decade of professional cycling experience and described the appointment in a LinkedIn post as an exciting new stage in her career. She said she looked forward to overseeing communications and contributing to the continued growth of women’s football.

Her responsibilities will include promoting stories about players, developing communication plans and helping the team reach wider audiences. Brammeier also expressed appreciation for the welcome she received from colleagues during her first week.

Her appointment is separate from the men’s team’s managerial situation and does not indicate a change in Carrick’s status. Nevertheless, the contrasting developments underline the different challenges facing the club, with the women’s communications department welcoming new leadership while the men’s first team searches for consistency.

Carrick’s immediate priority remains improving results, reducing defensive mistakes and restoring confidence. Unless performances improve, scrutiny of his leadership is likely to continue as Manchester United attempt to recover from their troubled start to the season.